With many employees having had a taste of the flexibility of working from home, it has become a criterion that potential employees judge a business by when looking for a new job. But how can you build a successful remote team? Let’s take a look at seven steps to consider.
STEP 1: Consider your industry and job specifications
There are many industries where working remotely is not productive or impossible e.g. manufacturing, hospitality and retail. But there are some industries like IT, copywriting, and graphic designing, where people can work from home. Therefore it is important to consider your business and if you will go fully remote or work on a hybrid system where you ask your employees to come in on some days.
STEP 2: Clearly define the position
When writing a definition for the position, you need to clearly state what the KPIs will be that you will assess the job on. It would be best if you remembered that people who want to work remotely like the freedom of when they work. Therefore you should judge their productivity on their output rather than the time they spend behind the computer. You should also ensure you hire someone who can work independently, communicates well, and knows how to stick to deadlines.
STEP 3: Build trust
Trust is crucial in every relationship especially when you are working remotely. You can build trust by not micromanaging your remote employees. You need to ensure the person you hire is trustworthy.
STEP 4: Use technology
There is a vast amount of technology available but it is important that you at least give your employees access to a chat program with video capabilities, a project management tool, a file management tool, a time-tracking tool if you pay your employee per hour they work, and customer relations management software. With these pieces of software, your employees will be well-equipped for their job.
STEP 5: Create a process document
You have many processes which occur in your business. It is important to write down each process and put it in an easy-to-access folder. Not only will this document assist with successfully onboarding your new remote staff member but it will also add value to your business should you wish to sell it in the future. This document is a living document and should be changed as the business evolves.
STEP 6: Have clear communication lines
Being able to communicate through writing is a critical skill for a remote worker as they often send instant messages or emails to colleagues and customers. You should also have a clear procedure for how matters are communicated. For example: with an urgent matter you may require a phone call and to contact colleagues you can use Skype or WhatsApp but with a customer, you must use email for a paper trail.
STEP 7: Connect often
Remote workers may often feel disconnected from the team. You should hold team meetings as well as one-on-one sessions to keep in contact with your team. Furthermore, you need to put in avenues for employees to give feedback or to voice concerns. Lastly, virtual teambuilding activities are a good way to build a bond amongst remote colleagues.
By following these seven steps you will be able to create an excellent remote team which will excel and have a good company culture.
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