In recent years, more and more businesses have utilized a remote workforce. After all, it features several benefits for both the company and its employees.
Yet, due to recent developments because of the coronavirus pandemic, going the remote route has been enforced on many businesses fortunate enough to still remain in operation. Due to this, any newcomers to this approach may be struggling to get to grips with managing workers from home.
If you’re in the same boat, or simply want to refine the management of your home-bound employees, this article is here to offer assistance. Here are five tips for managing a remote workforce.
Set clear goals and instructions
As a starting point, you should supply each employee with a clear daily and weekly plan for their work. Detail the goals that you want them to achieve, and give them the necessary instructions to make it a reality.
When doing this, you could brief them each morning and check-in for updates after lunch. Also, the more detailed the instructions, the less likely they will become stumped and require assistance.
Communicate the right way
Communication is imperative when employees are working remotely. Thankfully, there are many communication and collaboration tools available to make this easy.
When it comes to discussions with your employees, it can be easy to fall into the trap of simply giving them their instructions and ending the call/chat. However, building and maintaining a rapport with them is important. They will feel more comfortable and engaged, which is needed during these unprecedented times.
Use video chat software
Expanding on the topic of communication, video chat software is an excellent tool to have at your disposal. You can only gain so much insight from audio and text communication. In contrast, video allows you to pick up on visual clues – keep in mind that body language is responsible for more than 50% of human communication.
In addition, being able to see each other will boost mood levels and battle back against feelings of loneliness.
Ask for feedback
For those that have suddenly been dropped into the world of remote work, it can be difficult for them to get accustomed to the change. They are faced with many different challenges and, due to the nature of working alone, it can leave them feeling isolated.
To help them get through the change, ask employees to provide feedback. Give them a platform to voice their concerns. If you listen and act upon their comments, this will make them feel appreciated and boost their mood.
As for how to receive feedback, this can be done through regular surveys as supplied by inpulse.com. You can gain weekly insights and continually monitor how your remote workforce is getting on from an emotional wellbeing perspective.
Use Employee Monitoring Software
Trust them to do the work
Ultimately, you still have to allow your employees to get on with their work. Trust them to complete their tasks on time and avoid trying to micromanage everything. While regular communication is recommended, don’t send out messages every hour asking for progress updates.