Managing Remote Workers
Managing remote workers has become relatively easy with today’s far-reaching technology and numerous available online networks. Here are some simple tips for doing so:
Keep Communication Open
This is quite simple, but make sure you communicate your expectations and work priorities clearly and regularly, whether it’s in an email, a text, or a quick phone or video call.
Solid communications is essential for any successful team so plan meetings and one-on-one calls ahead of time and make them a weekly goal.
Collaboration and Management
Online project management platforms such as Asana or Trello are great tools to manage workflow and deadlines with a virtual office. With these platforms, you can assign projects and tasks, monitor their progress as well as work according to accessible schedules that can be accessed anywhere.
Additionally, many project management options help you address the previously mentioned challenges of communication by providing channels within their platforms, creating a centralized hub for any correspondence connected to a particular project.
Don’t be shy, use your webcam
Touch base with your workers regularly, not only for work-related matters but to maintain the personal connection that is found in traditional offices. Regular video meetings with your team is an effective way to maintain this connection and camaraderie and will be a useful contributor to team productivity and well-being.
Facetime, MS Teams and Skype, and or other video call apps should be used as much as possible. Body language, hand gestures, and mannerisms are key aspects of communication that regular phone calls do not capture.
10 tips to protect your workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, more of your team members are going to have to work at home and in many cases, alone. Even though you’re not sharing an office, it doesn’t mean that you are powerless to protect their well-being. There are number of simple and cost-effective steps that you can take to protect your team – even when they are working remotely.
Here are 10 things you can do right away to protect your workers:
List all of the safety risks of the lone worker’s workspace and look at ways to mitigate these hazards.
Using technology or other means, ensure there always are ways to contact the lone worker.
Establish a check-in schedule, making regular and planned contact with these workers.
Always equip your lone worker with the proper equipment and technology for them do their job safely and productively.
Provide your lone worker with a GPS device so that you can pinpoint their location during an emergency.
If your company can afford it, provide your team with comfortable and safe supplies like an ergonomic chair.
As part of your company’s health plan, provide extended benefits like covered counselling services and massage therapy.
Again, if your company has the resources, provide your team with a monthly financial contribution for any wellness-related purchases such as new runners or online yoga classes.
Make sure your lone worker is taking regular breaks from their work – this will really benefit their mental health.
Also, for their mental health and positive work culture, hold regular meetings with these lone workers via video chat.
