New technology has allowed for a more flexible approach to remote working, and many find this option appealing. Over two-thirds of companies currently have employees working outside the office. And this number is set to grow in the near future.
There are countless benefits to having remote workers, but countless challenges as well. Managing remote employees is one of the greatest challenges.
Managers need to ensure that workers are productive and efficient. They must guarantee that all employees feel like part of the team, as valuable members of the company.
So, take a look at some tips that can help employers manage their remote workers, increase their efficiency, and boost their morale.
Ensuring a safe connection
First thing’s first, it’s important to ensure that remote workers aren’t putting the company at risk of cyberattack. Cybercrimes are on the rise, and the average total cost of a data breach is $3.86 million. This drives home the importance of focusing on cybersecurity.
Employers often don’t know whether their remote workers are connected to an unsecured network. They have no way of detecting whether an outsider has insight into their computer’s activities.
Relying on a VPN for a safe connection is a must. A VPN encrypts all incoming and outgoing data on any public or private network and ensures that no one can monitor the device. Remote workers will be able to access sensitive company information necessary for their job safely.
Same software and hardware for all employees
This is a matter of cybersecurity, but even more so – it shows that all employees are treated equally. About 67% of people use their own devices at work, but it’s crucial that all employees are given the proper tools, including hardware and software, that’ll enable them to do their job well.
When all employees, even the remote ones, are using the same hardware and software, it’s easier to ensure the same levels of cybersecurity. And if a remote worker is experiencing issues, troubleshooting is simplified.
Balancing the schedules
Remote workers often live in different time zones, and that’s the beauty of remote working. It allows companies to extend their reach and find suitable employees with the right skills wherever they are.
However, this can become a problem when scheduling meetings. Most managers simply schedule a meeting when the time is right for the main office, causing great inconvenience when remote workers have to attend a video conference in the middle of the night, or bright and early in the morning.
This shows a lack of respect for the remote worker’s time. It can greatly reduce their motivation and productivity.
It’s important to ensure that, every once in a while, a compromise is made and meetings are scheduled at the best time for the remote employee as well.
Video communication is essential
Most people would prefer to talk about the important things in person rather than over the phone. And that’s completely understandable. Most human communication is nonverbal, and it’s essential to look at the nonverbal signs that might signal whether something’s wrong or not.
Managers can notice that in their team members when everyone’s at the office or in the meeting room. This allows them to connect with their employees and build relationships with them. This is exactly why constant video communication with remote employees is so important.
It helps the managers get to know their remote workers, and it gives them a chance to notice a potential problem early on and fix it.
Face-to-face meetings
At least one annual face-to-face meeting will help establish a stronger bond between team members. Investing in face-to-face meetings might seem rather expensive, but it motivates the workers, especially the remote ones, and has a huge effect on their productivity.
When remote employees feel isolated and abandoned, they’re more likely to start slacking at work, or even quit their job and join the competitors.
Building rapport
If you want to ensure remote workers are satisfied and loyal, it’s important to take the time to get to know them and build a solid relationship with them. Scheduling frequent one-on-one meetings, always being available for them when needed, helping and motivating them is essential.
Remote workers have a lot to offer to a company. It can be a challenge at first. Ensuring that they’re meeting all the expectations can be difficult. But investing time and effort into making sure they’re satisfied is well worth it.