Throughout the past several years, more people have been working remotely. The rise of the Internet and electronic communication devices have made it possible to work from almost anywhere. Moreover, since the COVID-19 pandemic that started in early 2020, remote employment has expanded further, and it will likely continue doing so in the future.
Therefore, company leaders must be able to manage remote workers and teams successfully. This can better ensure that employees complete tasks on time and adjust to working from home instead of in a more structured environment.
How to Lead a Remote Team Successfully
To lead a remote team well, company managers may need to loosen the reins while finding ways to continue holding employees accountable for their jobs. In many cases, doing this could require trial and error before getting it right, mainly because each company’s needs and requirements may differ.
Following are some essential tips that can help managers keep employees on track. These strategies include the following:
- Understanding common work-from-home challenges
- Setting clear remote work productivity standards
- Identifying and providing the right tools to employees
- Setting aside specific days, times, and methods for team interaction
- Following up with remote employees regularly
- Creating a video or tip sheet with other remote employees’ suggestions
- Remembering that remote doesn’t necessarily mean cheaper
- Regularly communicating with remote team members
Understanding Common Work from Home Challenges
There are typically four main challenges that remote managers can face. These are:
- Lack of face time with employees, coworkers, and other managers
- Video fatigue (where individuals feel like managers are continuously watching them)
- Communication breakdowns (due to technical issues or other difficulties)
- Distractions in the work area (such as children or pets in the employee’s home)
Setting Clear Remote Work Productivity Standards
Setting clear expectations for employees can help keep productivity standards high because workers will know what they need to do. This can include outlining the tasks each employee should be working on and setting deadlines for completion.
Identifying and Providing the Right Tools for Employees
One of the most beneficial things a manager can do is make all necessary tools easily accessible for employees. This could include apps and software programs, policy and procedure manuals, and presentation templates.
Each remote employee should ideally have access to digital communications devices, a reliable internet connection, a laptop or other computer, and a printer (or access to printing through a local copy store).
Setting Aside Specific Days, Times, and Methods for Team Interaction
Sometimes it can take more effort for remote teams to meet via video conference or another similar method. So, managers must arrange team-building activities to let coworkers get to know each other better.
Managers could establish a set time for online group interactions to monitor employees’ progress. Short daily or weekly check-ins with employee teams and individual workers can also help managers assess situations and make adjustments as necessary.
Following Up with Remote Employees Regularly
Following up with remote employees regularly can help managers ensure they are on track and engaged in the project(s) they are working on. Regular communication with employees and team members can also enable managers to:
- Determine whether the employees are doing well
- Identify and eliminate bottlenecks to progress
- Discuss plans for the employee’s professional development
- Answer any questions that the employee may have
The frequency of these employee check-ins can vary based on the individual, work ethic, and needs.
Creating a Video or Tip Sheet with Other Remote Employees’ Suggestions
Ensuring a successful remote workforce can be easier if managers have tips from individuals who have done so in the past. Various advice and insights could be shared, such as:
- Personal strategies for staying on task
- How to manage an ordinary workday
- Maintaining work-life balance
- Incorporating healthy behaviors (such as taking a break for exercise)
Sharing these tips in an easily accessible location can make it more convenient for employees to find and follow.
Remembering That Remote Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Cheaper
While having employees work remotely may save companies money on overhead costs like office space, this does not necessarily mean that total expenses will be any less overall. For example, travel costs could be higher. Likewise, the business may have to equip remote employees properly.
Although remote employees can be as productive as in-house workers, or even more so, managers must set these individuals up for success. Otherwise, the company’s profit margin could shrink.
Regularly Communicating with Remote Team Members
Managers can face challenges if they have a remote workforce. One of these can be having difficult conversations with employees, such as:
- Giving the employee negative feedback regarding specific behaviors or job performance.
- Issuing disciplinary actions.
- Reassigning roles or responsibilities of employees – particularly if these are considered a demotion.
Tough conversations with employees can be easier to move through if managers first:
- Establish trust with their employees and allow workers to be open and honest in their communication.
- Spend time getting to know their team members, including their personalities, work styles, and communication preferences.
- Set personal expectations by talking with employees about their roles and responsibilities and the process for carrying out their work successfully.
- Review the company’s remote work policy so employees are familiar with what they are expected to do and the communication methods they should use.
- Let employees know who to contact if they have any questions.
Are You Ready to Lead a Remote Work Team?
While leading a team of remote workers can be challenging, there are also many potential rewards. Creating a plan beforehand can be beneficial if you are ready to manage employees from a different location. Working with a consultant in this area who can provide helpful tips is also recommended.
