5 things leaders should know about managing remote workers

Are you struggling to manage remote teams? Check out five commonly asked questions here.

Research has found that working remotely increases productivity by 47 per cent and 14 per cent of Aussies plan to work remotely overseas in 2023.

Despite the positives, though, some business leaders are still finding it challenging to navigate remote working.

Here are five common questions employee experts Weekly10 get about remote working and how employers can address them effectively.

1. How can employers address the challenges of remote working?

To navigate the lack of face-to-face interaction while working remotely, managers can implement a number of strategies, according to Weekly10, which outlined several ways to maintain team cohesion and collaboration.

“The first strategy is setting up effective communication channels. All businesses should use instant messaging platforms and project management tools, such as Slack and Microsoft CRM. These can then schedule regular team meetings, video conferences and 1-2-1 catch-ups,” Weekly10 said.

“Remote employers and employees must embrace asynchronous communications, which are conversations that may happen throughout the day and are not instantaneous. It may take more time to respond on Slack, for example, compared to being in an office environment.”

Clear expectations must be set by employers so that employees are aware of timelines and deadlines and are able to keep projects on track while working remotely.

“Employers should provide employees with the necessary tools and resources to succeed, such as a laptop, access to the essential software and office necessities to work comfortably, such as an ergonomic chair to prevent musculoskeletal complications,” Weekly10 said.

“Employers should promote a healthy work/life balance. To establish boundaries between work and personal life and prevent the likelihood of burnout for remote workers, managers can encourage the use of regular breaks.”

2. How can employers foster connection in remote work settings?

Weekly10 said its vital remote employees feel part of an interconnected team despite working from home.

Some ways to enhance interconnectivity are by organising remote team-building activities such as trivia games, online escape rooms and virtual team challenges.

“Take advantage of small, informal team meetings,” Weekly10 added.

“When scheduled on a weekly basis, these virtual get-togethers allow employers and employees to gradually build strong, long-lasting relationships over time. It may also encourage people to start their own group chats for informal discussions, which may greatly benefit workplace culture for remote workers.”

“Remember to recognise success and celebrate employees. Employers can do this in a weekly or monthly event to share recently completed projects. By implementing a virtual recognition program, employers can foster intrinsic motivation and promote a positive culture.”

3. What are the keys to success while working remotely with clients?

There are three strategies you can take in order to support successful client relationships in a remote work set-up.

“Firstly, establish clear communication channels with clients. Remote working does not necessarily impair progress; regular check-ins, performance reviews and milestone celebrations will ensure clients are informed and happy,” Weekly10 explained.

“To replace paper documents, businesses should make use of collaboration tools. Microsoft Teams, for example, supplies seamless file sharing and real-time editing, giving clients visibility throughout the project lifecycle.

“Remember to turn on the camera while presenting to clients. In a work-from-home environment, staying hidden behind the screen while participating in video conferences is tempting. However, by turning on the camera, clients are better able to interact and participate.”

4. What is the value of working remotely from home?

Remote working offers multiple benefits, said Weekly10, which outlined three advantages for both employers and employees.

“Due to reduced distractions and more focused work environments, remote work can boost productivity by 51 per cent. In turn, more work is being produced to a better standard, helping individuals and the company,” it said.

“Not only can remote working help businesses save money on office space and utilities, but it can also allow employees to reduce spending on travel and lunches.

“Remote working allows employers to access a broader talent pool. More often than not, roles once confined to geographical spaces can be opened to applicants nationwide and worldwide. This helps businesses find the best person for the job while allowing employees to collaborate with a broader selection of co-workers.”

5. How can managers help employees successfully work remotely?

Remote working requires discipline and proactive approaches, Weekly10 said.

“Employees should be encouraged to create a dedicated workspace. A home office, for example, can help separate the personal and professional. This way, they are less likely to spend time scrolling through their phone or being distracted by their environment,” it said.

“Structure is the key to success. Remote working dramatically benefits from a consistent routine, such as taking regular breaks at appropriate times. This will help create an efficient working environment while at home.

“Remember to encourage time management. By setting goals and prioritising tasks, managers can help remote workers motivate themselves while they work remotely.”