Like on-site staff, remote workers benefit when managers take the time to promote positive work habits and best practices. But achieving goals such as increased productivity and better communication can require a few tweaks when dealing with telecommuters.
Consider these five best practices to help your remote team members maximize potential and create a successful off-site arrangement:
1. Designate “office” space.
Insist that teleworkers create a quiet place to concentrate and spread out. While it need not be an elaborate set-up, an area in which work-related material can be stored and organized prevents important papers from being tossed out with junk mail or lost somewhere in the house. A dedicated area also trains the brain to associate this place with professional activities, leading to greater focus.
2. Establish work hours.
Discover a better way to recruit remote talent
Founded in 2007, FlexJobs is the most experienced remote & hybrid hiring platform.
- Unlimited job posts
- Low, flat membership fee
- Access top-level remote advice
- Unlimited resume searches
- Reach the right candidates
- And so much more!
“Just because you are working outside of the office doesn’t mean that you should discard all of the conventions of office life,” says Monica Eaton-Cardone, co-founder and COO of Chargebacks911.
She suggests that employers encourage teleworkers to develop schedules and stick to them with the same dedication as if going into the office. Besides making it easier for the remote worker to stay on track, this regularity helps managers, co-workers, and family members plan interaction accordingly.
3. Find peak productivity.
If the situation is such that your remote workers can choose their hours, assure them that results are what matters. Freedom to complete tasks when energy level is best or when one’s home environment is most conducive can foster greater results than insisting on a 9-to-5 schedule.
4. Communicate early and often.
“ABC: Always Be Communicating—even if it means sending an email at a time when your colleagues may be asleep,” professes Bart Mroz, CEO of SUMO Heavy, which has remote staff in various time zones.
Set company-wide guidelines regarding response times, shared calendars and documents, and preferred communication methods for various situations. But also urge your telecommuters to simply stay connected as they see fit. A virtual open door where someone can present an idea, double-check a fact, or ask a “trivial” question leads to greater engagement, improved accuracy, and fewer unwanted surprises.
5. Prioritize mutual trust.
Finally, both employers and flex workers need to realize that telecommuting arrangements involve a leap of faith. Let remote workers know how they can strengthen trust through actions such as keeping their word, asking for help when needed, and consistently delivering quality work. In return, leaders can reciprocate trust by giving appropriate credit, asking for input, and refraining from micromanagement. After all, the best “best practice” is a staff working together to achieve amazing outcomes!
Photo Credit: bigstockphoto.com
Don't forget to share this article with colleagues!
