Remote work is on the rise. According to Upwork’s “Future of Workforce Pulse 2020” survey, more than 90% of companies are offering remote work options, and nearly three-quarters of companies plan to continue to do so in the future.
It’s no wonder why: remote work offers a number of advantages, such as increased job satisfaction, improved productivity, and the ability to work from anywhere. But managing remote staff requires specialized skills and knowledge. Here are five steps to successfully managing your remote team.
1. Set Expectations
The most important step in managing remote staff is to establish expectations. This includes setting clear goals, deadlines, and communication protocols.
To ensure that everyone is on the same page, it’s important to discuss these expectations with your team at the beginning of the project. This will give you a chance to explain the project’s objectives and expectations, as well as answer any questions your team may have.
2. Utilize the Right Technology
The right technology can make all the difference when managing remote staff. From video conferencing tools to project management software, there are a number of tools available to help you keep your team organized and on track.
Take the time to research the best tools for your team and make sure everyone is familiar with how to use them. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that communication is clear and efficient.
3. Check in Regularly
When managing remote staff, it’s important to check in regularly. This can be done through video conference calls, group chats, or other methods of communication.
Regular check-ins allow you to ensure that your team is on track and that everyone is clear on their responsibilities. It also gives you a chance to provide feedback, answer questions, and address any issues that may arise.
4. Foster a Sense of Community
Working remotely can be isolating, so it’s important to foster a sense of community among your remote staff. This can be done through team-building activities, virtual happy hours, or other methods of connecting.
These activities can help your team get to know each other on a more personal level and build trust and camaraderie. This will make it easier for them to work together, even when they’re not in the same physical location.
5. Provide Support and Training
Finally, it’s important to provide support and training to your remote staff. This can include providing access to online learning resources, offering one-on-one mentoring, or providing access to additional tools and resources.
By providing the right support and training, you can ensure that your remote staff has the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. This will help them stay motivated and productive, even when they’re working remotely.
Successfully managing remote staff requires a different approach than managing staff in an office. By following these five steps, you can ensure that your remote staff is productive, motivated, and has the support they need to be successful.
