There are many effective ways to connect with co-workers despite being remote. One’s workplace environment won’t always be accessible to them, and this forces many businesses to take their work home and operate more remotely. This can prove to be difficult for some businesses especially those who have always thrived by in-person scenarios; this is, sadly, rearing its head at a widespread level during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It may seem a bit challenging to adapt to a remote approach. However, managers can properly lead a remote workforce by adopting the following skills and approaches:
Expand Communication Options
Emailing isn’t always sufficient. If a team is accustomed to hearing their manager speak to them, then emailing might be a shift in communication. So, it’s wise to expand communication technology options while working remotely. A lot of information tends to get misinterpreted or misconstrued through texting or emailing. This is not a good thing to have as a business because it can lead to a decrease in quality work and production. Thus, managers should find new and innovative ways to ensure that their team fully comprehends the briefings they are given. Video conferencing can be done using apps like Google Duo, Skype, Whereby, Whatsapp, Zoom, and more.
Individualization
Managers should always take the lives of their colleagues into consideration. Many people have kids who are at home from school during this time. Or, staff members may have other obligations to tend to. So, managers should aim to not take up too much time. Video conferencing is a more efficient and effective way to communicate. Managers should schedule calls for about 10-20 minutes. A shorter amount of time reduces the possibility of distractions during the call. It’s also more practical for most people to commit to on a consistent basis. Coming up with an individualized schedule allows everyone to engage routinely. However, managers must make these schedules quite flexible to accommodate their employees’ needs.
Set Rules of Engagement
Leading a remote workforce, managers must establish rules of engagement to ensure each employee stays in the loop and on the same page. Rules of engagement can include frequent daily check-ins to gauge the progress of specific projects. These calls shouldn’t be too long or too frequent throughout the day as managers need to allow their employees enough time to focus on the task. It’s important that managers don’t micromanage. These check-ins should only serve as a reminder.