Managing a team of employees whilst working remotely requires a different approach to managing when in the same physical space. We’ve compiled some tips to help you drive outcomes, maintain engagement, productivity, motivation and teamwork whilst managing a team remotely.
Clearly Communicate Expectations
First things first. In order to effectively manage a remote team, you need to trust in your people and their ability to deliver to the same standard as they would when working physically within the same space.
To allow them to deliver, you also need to be clear about what is expected of them, so they can confidently get on with their tasks, working productively and effectively. Establish clear expectations from the onset.
Expectations might include:
When do you expect your team to be available?
What deadlines are all employees required to work towards?
What methods of communication should be used by employees?
How frequently should they be communicating with you?
Who is responsible for working on what task?
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Use collaborative tools
We are fortunate to be living in a world where there are unlimited technological tools that can be used to increase efficiency, productivity and improve the organisation of tasks. Use this to your advantage to stay connected with your team. Platforms such as Slack, Google Docs, Microsoft Teams and Trello are great to keep track of tasks that both you and your employees are working on. They also allow collaboration, delegation, integration with other tools and help instill accountability among teams.
To humanise your interactions, maintain relationships and pick up on non-verbal cues, use video calling tools such as Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime and Zoom, scheduling daily or weekly calls. Scheduling calls with not only your team collectively but also individually will also allow employees the opportunity to discuss things they may not feel comfortable doing so amongst peers.
Recognise and Encourage a Healthy Work Life Balance
It’s great to be able to maintain constant and instant connection with your team through technology, however it is also imperative to distinguish your employee’s life outside of work. As a quality leader, you should promote a positive work-life balance and encourage employees not to overstretch themselves. Reiterate the importance of switching off after work hours and do not encourage the blurring of boundaries. This may include limiting you’re out of hours emails and communication, so your staff don’t feel the need to mirror your actions.
Connect with us
Reach out to us if you’d like a consultant to discuss any of the above or the tips contained within this article by emailing admin@sharpandcarter.com.au or calling 03 9616 2600.
