Modern business reality entails the existence of remote teams, and therefore, it is critical to understand how to manage them properly. For those who are managing new companies or even big corporations, the proper management of remote workers can impact the company’s success more than any other single factor. Let me share some important recommendations that would allow you to motivate your remote crew and help them perform their best.
Establish Clear Communication Channels
This can, however, be a major challenge in remote team management because of issues to do with communication. As all team members work from different locations, having a clear communication strategy is important. This can be done through constant use of applications such as Slack, MS Teams, or even Zoom, etc. Use of the survey that Buffer conducted highlighted that 20% of remote employees have significant issues with communication and the flow of tasks.
Pro Tip: It is also recommended to establish a day or a week meeting to make sure everyone is informed and to create board transparency.
Foster a Sense of Community
Oddly enough, working remotely can feel very lonely at times. People often say that being part of the community will make your team members feel like they are to get together, if they are from different states. Regular online meetings, for example, a virtual break for a cup of coffee, team-building activities or simply celebrating a birthday and other achievements go a long way in creating the feel of togetherness. Such small gestures assist a lot in the formulation of an effective team and in boosting morale.
Fun Fact: The Gallup company’s evidence also revealed that companies where employees have a feeling of a tight-knit team get 21% more productivity.
Set Clear Goals and Expectations
One of the critical areas that have to do with remote team management at a distance involves setting expectations. This is why every worker should know why they are putting in any effort at work and why productivity is so high. Set up SMART targets along with timeframes and key performance expectations for each of the team’s members. Such a level of clarity prevents misconceptions and always keeps all the team members in synch.
Trending Tip: Staying organized is important, so try to incorporate tools such as Trello, Asana, and Monday.com so that every member who is a part of that project, could see what has to be done.
Embrace Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of working remotely is being able to work at any time, in any place. But it is also greatly helpful in remote team management. Let your workers decide their schedules pro-rank if you are okay with the work done by certain hours. It enhances performance and time management, and makes work-life balance possible—a situation that is good for everyone!
Stat Alert: A survey done by Owl Labs reveals that workers are twenty-two percent happier and more likely to remain with their employer when flexibility is allowed at the workplace.
Share Appropriate Equipment and Material
To work optimally, teams that are located remotely should have the right equipment or devices that can help them meet their tasks’ demands. Communication tools and project management platforms, among others, are an investment that any team must consider for the remote team to be manageable. Ensure all employees have a reliable Internet connection, software, and the required hardware to do their work at the office.
Celebrate successes and Acts of Courage
Who doesn’t appreciate a little recognition for a job well done? Ensure to applaud your team often and formally through an acknowledgment during virtual meetings, gift cards, or bonuses. This motivates the team and makes members work harder to be of great influence to the team and organization.
Did You Know? Employees at organizations that have a focus on employee appreciation have a 31% lower turnover rate.
Self-care for the Body, Mind, and Soul
Working remotely often means that an employee cannot easily distinguish between work and home, which may cause burnout. Remind your team to step away from the computer, tell people to log off early if you can, and encourage taking care of themselves. Make information about mental health available and accessible, organize and present wellness sessions, or just perform mental health check-ins on your colleagues.
Conclusion
Remote team management doesn’t have to be a complicated task. By implementing these essential tips, you’ll create a productive, engaged, and happy remote team. Remember, the key is to maintain clear communication, foster a sense of community, set goals, embrace flexibility, and always recognize your team’s efforts. With the right approach, you’ll turn your remote team into a well-oiled machine, ready to take on any challenge that comes their way!