It’s been over a year since remote work became a regular and everyday thing. Working from your home, being able to stay in your pajamas, and juggling work with personal life has been challenging. But for many employees, it was a dream come true.
Now, having gotten used to this work style, we can see more clearly what is essential to manage remote work more efficiently. That is why we wanted to share a list of 6 things that you, as an employer, should keep in mind if your employees are working remotely.
Prepare your employees with all equipment needed
There are many things that we need even when we are working on-site. Imagine then all the tools and equipment that our homes lack. First, when working remotely, be sure that your employees have laptops and printers, even chairs and desks.
Provide them with the apps and business tools that are much needed for everyday productivity and engagement level. Using tools helps provide information and news and connects you with all the people you usually sit a chair away from. If you need help finding the right new tool, check our post on how to find the right internal communication channel.
Invest time and resources in communication
Your people are no longer in the same place, having a sip of coffee together and sharing their job updates or information that they’ve heard in the office. So it is crucial to find a good communication channel where employees can gather around and have all important company news in one place. And even have a space to share their opinions and stories they would usually share with coworkers during lunch breaks.
Communicate individually
There is no more face-to-face “rendez-vou” where you can tell from someone’s face if something bothers them. If you are a small business, make time to know what is happening with your employees. Be open and make them feel that they can come to you with different matters. And if you have many employees, make sure that HR is adapting to the new “from the far” approach.
Set expectations and be organized but flexible
It is essential to arrange all the tasks, provide guidelines and set the boundaries. Organize your workweek, but be prepared that working from home to your employees can mean working flexible hours. That doesn’t mean they won’t do their jobs. On the contrary, they will sometimes go the extra mile and do even more knowing they didn’t spend time getting ready and traveling to the office. If someone wants to have fixed working hours, that’s fine! Make sure that everyone is on the same page and knows one another’s work schedule. And never assume being at home means being available.
The outcome is important
Remote work makes it difficult to micro-manage people. Great for both sides! Define goals, and then let your employees structure their work and activities. Focus on the outcome, not on the activity. Giving employees more autonomy and responsibilities can have a positive take on productivity and engagement.
Celebrate!
One big downside of no longer having one place where everyone is together is celebrating success. So even when your team is working remotely, find a way to celebrate all the accomplishments that you would usually celebrate in the office.
Not only that but celebrate your employees individually. Give them kudos for their excellent work and remind them that their effort is seen even if you are miles apart.
Remote work is the new normal, so make sure that you give your best to make it work and manage remote work appropriately!
