Remote working has become the norm over the last few years, and for many, it’s something they can no longer go without. It’s been a complete game changer in flexible working and allowing your career to not be limited to your home city but the world over.
However, for employers, it has its challenges, and one of the biggest is still being able to support workers in the same way they would if everyone were in an office.
That isn’t to say it’s impossible, though, and here are five ways you can best support your staff and colleagues who are working remotely…
Be efficient in your communication
Remote workers can feel isolated and disconnected, so it is essential to keep communication channels open. Schedule regular one-on-one meetings with remote workers to check in and see how they are doing. Use video conferencing instead of phone calls, as it creates a more personal connection. Encourage team members to communicate with each other regularly, whether it’s through email, instant messaging, or video conferencing. Consider implementing a company-wide chat platform to facilitate communication and collaboration.
Give them an office set-up from the comfort of their home
Remote workers need access to the same tools and technology as their office-based colleagues. Ensure that they have access to a fast and reliable internet connection, and provide them with the necessary hardware and software to do their job effectively. Consider investing in project management tools, such as Asana or Trello, to help remote workers manage their workload and stay organized.
Encourage work-life balance – they need to switch off!
Working remotely can blur the line between work and home life, leading to burnout and stress. Encourage remote workers to take regular breaks and set boundaries around their working hours. Consider implementing flexible working hours to allow remote workers to work around their family commitments or personal life. Encourage them to take advantage of their increased flexibility and work from a coffee shop or park to break up the monotony of working from home.
Offer support and encourage openness
When your staff is working from home, it can be difficult to get a sense of their well-being. After all, you’re only communicating for a short period each day, and then they’re left to their own devices.
Remote working can be lonely, but it can also hide other things going on in a person’s life that could be affecting their well-being and their enjoyment at work. Put programs and options in place for them to reach out and get support, whether that be matters of work or home life.
More and more people are suffering from mental health problems, and remote working does pose challenges on that front. Alongside this, we see in the likes of addiction, so having connections with detox clinics and being able to point people in the right direction and get the help they need can be hugely valuable.
It’ll make staff feel supported, no matter where they are operating from, and ensure you are providing your duty of care for employees.
Provide professional development opportunities
That disconnection can spread into the feeling around a company’s culture and development opportunities too. Encourage remote workers to participate in training sessions and professional development opportunities. Ensure that they have access to the same learning and development opportunities as their office-based colleagues. Consider offering online courses or webinars to provide remote workers with opportunities to develop their skills and stay connected with the company.
