How to manage remote workers successfully

by Kelly Smith tutor and writer

With limited and expensive office space, progressive companies are increasingly deciding to hire remote workers. Because of this, an important question arises – how to create a convenient work environment for both management and employees? Inevitably, there are certain obstacles managers will have to overcome in order to create a team that functions like a well-oiled machine. Read on to find out what they are, and how to handle them.

Choose wisely

If you do decide that remote workers will benefit your company, the first thing to do is to choose the right people for this kind of job. While selecting candidates, pay attention to what they have achieved in their professional career, and what projects they have realized. Don’t focus only on an impressive resume, but also on actual results. During the recruitment process, you could, for example, ask the candidate to complete a mini-project. This will help you to identify strengths and weaknesses, and assure you that they can work independently.

Respect, but stay alert

One of the biggest worries of managers is that remote employees won’t work hard enough. To ensure that you and your employers are on the same page, try and arrange for them to be available during office hours, so that they are accessible and able to build relationships with other co-workers. It will also be easier to monitor their progress and provide feedback as you go. But never forget about the employee and remember that there is always a person on the other side of the screen. Make sure your remote employees are able to maintain a good work-life balance and don’t work unhealthy hours.

Provide necessary technology

The next important issue is to make sure the technologies your firm provides are accessible from other locations. Many companies install a virtual private network (VPN) that allows employees to access the office network at any time from the convenience of their home. This is particularly useful if the company stores helpful work materials and important documents on internal servers. Remote workers need to have access to the same tools as office workers have. Regular updates are also vital. Remember to inform your employees about ongoing projects, changes, and any other important information.

Establish expectations

Remote workers also need to know the rules from the very beginning. You must present all necessary guidelines, while the employee needs to know how their progress will be measured. Together with their manager, employees need to set clear goals and objectives, and agree on a date to conduct a performance evaluation. Once a year is enough, but it can be done every season as well. However, be sensitive to warning signs. If an employee misses deadlines, or doesn’t respond to emails and requests, it’s time to have a little chat.

Stay in touch

Getting in touch with remote workers may sometimes prove difficult, especially if your employee works in a different time zone. Check in regularly by Skype or phone, but don’t make it all about business. Chat with your employee, find some time for casual conversations once in a while and get to know them better. Furthermore, do not underestimate the value of face-to-face meetings. From time to time, try to meet in person. Invite remote employees to visit the office and get to know their co-workers.

Show appreciation

It’s important to do whatever you can to make your remote employees feel part of the team. Ask for their feedback and collaborate with them on different issues you regularly discuss with your office employers. Although they may not be able to show up, given the distance, invite them to office parties, as well.

If you are still hesitant towards the trend of working from home, you need to make sure it fits your business philosophy. If your business requires continual face-to-face contact, hiring a remote employee may not suit your purposes. But if the majority of your work is done on computers, it could be worth giving it a chance. Under the right management, remote workers will save your company’s money and office space, and could see your business flourish.

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Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.

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