Do you want to start a remote team within your company? Modern businesses benefit from workers who don't have to be physically on site all the time. But creating a successful remote workforce has challenges that a regular team may not. Conquer these challenges by building these five key ingredients right from the start.
Communication
Communication on a remote team is just as vital as it is in any of ice, but it's generally much harder to keep up with.
However, you can facilitate open and honest communication with many different routes. Weekly meetings with the entire team should accompany one-on-one meetings with individuals to have a more in-depth conversation. Use text and email to keep up with employees, but don't discount video chatting for more personal discussions.
Don't make all your communications formal, critical, or completely on-topic. Cal to see how people are doing. Shoot the breeze before and after meetings. Remember your team member's birthdays, work anniversaries, and accomplishments. This type of water cooler conversation opens up more ways for you to engage with each other and more chances to learn what's really going on within the team.
Appreciation
Remote workers can feel like they're less important to the home of ice. You and your company may have to work harder to show that they're just as valued. Make time in your schedule to meet with virtual workers when it's convenient for them, not just for you. Meeting in person on a regular basis helps all employees feel connected as well.
Show appreciation not just for their work and contributions but also for them as individuals. You can do this by showing concern for their of -duty lives, spouses, and family situations.
Trust
Managing employees who aren't onsite often leads to one of two tendencies. Either managers try to micromanage everything or they grow too relaxed about overseeing staff .
As the team leader, you will set the tone from the beginning. Set team goals, assign staff , and check in, but delegate as much as is reasonable. Allowing virtual teams to work on their own to achieve shared goals helps them develop a relationship.
Trust isn't just about a leader trusting his or her team. It's also about being trustworthy yourself. Keep your word and do what you say you're going to do. Be regular for meetings and check-ins, and be available for employees when they have questions or concerns. Fight for your team's
interests in overall business decisions. The more they trust you, the better you can trust them.
Technology
Modern technology is how remote teams can survive and thrive, so take advantage of it. Start out by finding the best ways to meet virtually with staff , to manage projects together, and to monitor productivity. But never stop being open to new technological tools, especially those geared toward road warriors. Look for useful tools from apps and cloud-based work spaces to video conferencing locations.
Growth
Don't let your team grow idle. Help them keep up with changing trends in your industry, perhaps by attending virtual conferences and organizing (video or in-person) training seminars. Challenge them with new project assignments or responsibilities. Have them work with other departments in the company and make opportunities available to move up the corporate ladder.
By fostering these valuable qualities within your team and in your interactions with them, you'l create a space that people wil enjoy working in - and one that's more profitable for your business.
At Executive Suites, LLC, we provide everything you and your remote workers need to thrive together and separately. Cal today to learn more about our remote meeting and work spaces.