The workplace mindset has shifted because we aren’t all in the same “place”.  Remote working statistics show an increasing percentage of remote workers and their desire to maintain work-from-home arrangements.  

During COVID-19 close to 70% of full-time workers were working from home.  After COVID-19, 92% of people surveyed expect to work from home at least 1 day per week and 80%  are expected to work at least 3 days from home per week.¹ 

Managing productivity and relationships has become an important way to engage remote employees. 

The typical problems to solve when managing relationships and productivity with remote workers are: 

• their lack of “feeling in on things” 
• their home-based challenges of either isolation or family 24/7 
• communication of issues (considering the absence of informal avenues such as the water cooler or hallways) 
• lack of trust (both ways) 
• lack of connection, engagement and retention 

Solutions for strengthening relationships have not changed, but the medium for communication with remote employees has.  Getting face-to-face on video conference calls regularly for check-ins, both one-on-one as well as team meetings can provide the connection that replaces in-person gatherings.  Phone calls are a close second. Those working off-site need more connection time with their manager than the on-site folks, to attain an equal feeling of being part of the team. 

Focus on Employee Well Being First 

Regular check-ins are essential to build trust, ensure task prioritization, discuss roadblocks and determine action items.  The purpose of these check-in meetings is to ensure individual needs are being heard and, where possible, addressed.  The meeting rhythm for one-on-one conversations is recommended monthly in times of great change, or quarterly during more stable times.  By helping people share concerns and feel connected despite their distance, they will adapt more effectively to change. 

Check-ins can be short, sweet and to the point.  They will aid in accountability.  This routine will help you as a manager better understand the people under your wing.  Create a meeting rhythm, put your listening ears on and keep the connection strings tight. 

Watch for our next leadership tip explaining the person-centric habits that will build a great bond between you and your team. 

Looking for great ideas to Engage Your Remote Employees? Register for our 2-Hour Virtual Workshop!

1 The statistics for Remote Work by Appolo Technical can be found HERE