The pandemic is completely redefining the way teams communicate and work. While remote work used to be offered by some companies as a way to offer a more flexible lifestyle to their employees, it has now become the norm for most businesses, and is drastically changing the way employees interact with the rest of the team and their managers. This new way of working may have been implemented without time for adjustment, which could make remote work challenging for both companies and employees and turning the lasts days particularly hectic and challenging.
To better help you through this change, here are some tips to best communicate and engage with your remote employees while remote working:
As we know, many companies have adapted their tasks flow and employees to work remotely, and already implemented some of the tips we mentioned above. However, others have had more struggle and one of the most common problem was how to best keep the team motivated. With that in mind we have assemble 3 best tips to help you understand how to best motivate your team.
1. Provide a platform for effective communication: Communication is key. Remote workers have an equal stake in being included in the direction of the business. Keeping remote employees informed and in the loop. Reminds them not only that they're part of a larger organization, but also that the organization has a vested interest in their relationship. Don’t forget to establish regular check-in calls to help your remote workforce feel included, but also encourage the use of platforms for instant messaging and chat that allow informal conversations between colleagues to flourish.
2. Recognize great work: All employees want to be recognized for the value they bring to the team and company. Make it a point to recognize remote workers for the many contributions they're making to your organization. But don't stop there. Make recognition highly visible so other members of the organization are aware of the valuable contributions remote workers are making on a daily basis. Call out remote workers' big wins and empower the rest of the team to do the same.
3. Clarify goals: In a May 2016 Forbes piece, Victor Lipman points out, “If expectations are completely clear, and preferably mutually agreed-upon, it helps to bring the entire remote working arrangement into clearer focus.” Setting expectations is a motivator for remote workers.
BONUS TIP
Assist with time management: Employees have the freedom to take care of household chores, take the kids to school, go to a doctor’s appointment and more, but may struggle focusing on the work time. To help remote workers better manage their time you could provide tools, tips, and training on time management. This will show not only that you care about your employees, but also will give them resources to help with their path to success.
Motivation doesn’t happen overnight but do not neglect the importance of motivating your team. If you truly want to have the full benefits of a highly motivated workforce, this will be a long-term investment requiring consistency from you and your management team.
And know that, if you find managing your team remotely a challenge, you’re not alone. Many are struggling with the “new normal” but remembering to invest in some tips and tricks to help you are your employees adapt to the situation.
Do you have your own strategies for motivating you employees? Share it with us below!
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