If you have anyone working remotely right now, you know that remote workers have different needs than non-remote workers. However, addressing remote workers’ needs isn’t necessarily easy. With these seven steps, you can avoid common remote management mistakes.
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Give Constructive Feedback:
Being able to provide constructive feedback is one of the most important elements of being a manager. Consider trying to provide more constructive feedback on a more regular basis, and remember that “constructive feedback” includes compliments as well.
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Measure Productivity Effectively:
Some managers assume that working from home is inherently less productive than working at an office. In fact, this isn’t true, and many employers and employees actually report improvements in productivity. Remember that measuring productivity effectively will help you understand where your remote employees need help and where they’re doing okay.
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Utilize Multiple Productivity Tools:
Productivity tools can help you significantly when it comes to proactively addressing management concerns. Equip your remote employees with project management tools to help them avoid productivity concerns before they run into those concerns at all.
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Communicate With Modern Tools:
You need to make sure you understand your employees’ skill levels and that you understand your own. Make sure you know how to use all communication tools you use and offer training for any employees who are having a hard time with communication tools.
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Continue Offering Career Growth Opportunities:
Career growth opportunities are a significant reason that many people work harder at their jobs, but work-from-home employees are much less likely to get those growth opportunities, which can have a serious negative impact on their desire to work harder. Digital development resources, like online courses, can help your remote workers continue to grow in their careers.
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Set Expectations for Work Hours:
When you have a payroll employee who works remotely, you’re able to set working hours for them even though they’re not coming in. You should set working hours not only to make sure they’re working how you need them to work, but also to help them keep their work/life balance intact. Do your best not to disturb them during non-work hours; just because someone’s working from home doesn’t mean they’re always on the clock.
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Manage Mental and Physical Well-Being:
Your remote workers’ mental and physical well-being is just as important as the well-being of your other workers. This is especially true because remote workers often feel like they’re not as connected to other employees. Especially if you all live in the same area, consider setting up employee nights to make sure everyone feels like part of the team.
Conclusion:
It’s possible to encourage your remote workers and make them feel like a true part of your team, even if they’re not on site every day. Remember, remote work productivity isn’t going to happen overnight. It’s something you and your workers all have to work together to achieve. However, by avoiding mistakes with these seven steps, you can set yourself on a great path to success.
