It looks like work-from-home arrangements will continue for the time being. Although many workplaces are beginning to open up again, social distancing protocols may keep many offices from reoccupying fully. If you supervise employees who have been working remotely for the first time, you probably have noticed that some adapt to the new way of working better than others. Part of your challenge in managing your remote workers is in providing the support and encouragement to help them remain productive and retain their sense of belonging to a team.
Finding virtual office methods that substitute for the usual interactions in a physical office is often the first order of business. Employees who have been used to face-to-face supervision, along with ready access to information from you and other coworkers, can experience social isolation in the remote environment. As a supervisor, you may also lack information about the situation your employees have at home and how distractions affect them. Understanding these factors will allow you to find solutions that effectively address their needs and keep your organization running smoothly.
"A regular check-in with remote employees keeps them engaged and reduces isolation."
Regularly checking in with each remote employee is vital to keeping them engaged and reducing the sense of isolation. Email is good for transmitting information, but it doesn’t create the conversational ambiance you want for this communication. The daily check-in, whether by phone or a video call, provides an opportunity to exchange information, update assignments and priorities, and respond to any questions or concerns. It’s also the time to ask how they are doing with the new situation and whether any additional support is needed. Try to manage your schedule to make this contact a predictable event for your remote employees. Knowing they can depend on this routine communication will give them reassurance of being listened to and contributes to accountability.
Technology has given us more options for remote individuals to interact with the rest of the team. Video conferencing allows both verbal and nonverbal communication among coworkers. This can further alleviate isolation and reinforce collaborative efforts. Allow for some social time during these conferences so that people can reconnect with those they have been used to being around. Share successes the group can celebrate together; and discover how you may all be encountering some of the same issues. Most importantly, give encouragement that all of you can get through this together.