August 5, 2023
Lyceum Insurance Services
Managing Remote Teams: Best Practices for Employers
Managing remote teams has become increasingly prevalent in today’s dynamic work environment.
As more companies embrace flexible work arrangements, it’s essential for employers to adopt effective strategies to successfully lead and support remote teams. As of 2023, 12.7% of full-time employees work from home, while 28.2% work a hybrid model.
Clarity in expectations and goals is crucial for remote teams. Employers should define and communicate clear objectives, deadlines, and performance expectations to remote employees. Providing a well-defined structure helps remote team members understand their roles, responsibilities, and the desired outcomes. Something else to consider is hours worked vs results produced for remote workers on average. A study found that remote workers, on average, spend 10 minutes less a day being unproductive, work one more day a week, and are 47% more productive. But on the reverse side, remote workers also end up working more hours on average due to the flexible and virtual nature of their work requirements. A different study found that remote workers on average work an additional eight hours above the baseline 40 hour workweek.
Remote work can sometimes feel isolating; did you know that 50% of remote workers report feeling lonely at least once per week? Employers should actively promote team collaboration and foster a sense of belonging among remote team members. Virtual team-building activities, online brainstorming sessions, in-person regional meetups, and collaborative projects can boost camaraderie and strengthen relationships. Encouraging cross-functional collaboration and recognizing individual and team achievements help remote employees feel valued and engaged.
Employers should ensure that remote team members have the necessary resources and support to perform their roles effectively. This includes providing access to reliable technology, software tools, and relevant training. Reimbursement programs could include covering the necessities required of an employee to perform their job duties, as a way to enable and equip them to do their jobs well without having to feel strained or burdened if they don’t have all necessary equipment. Employers should also establish processes for remote employees to seek assistance, address challenges, and receive ongoing feedback and professional development opportunities.
In conclusion, managing remote teams requires a thoughtful and proactive approach from employers. To learn more about how Lyceum Insurance can support you in navigating the challenges remote working can produce, call us today at (301) 840-6624 or visit our website at www.lyceumins.com. Our team of specialists is on hand and ready to show you how to take the first step toward engaging and empowering your workforce, today.
Sources:
https://www.apollotechnical.com/working-from-home-productivity-statistics/
Categories: Blog