How to support your employees with remote working

With the extension of Lockdown in Victoria, businesses are taking extra measures to make sure that their employees are being well looked after when working from home. It is assumed that employers would continue to allow employees work remotely even after COVID vaccinations are widely available. However, few had much experience of remote working when the pandemic started and many organizations had first experienced remote work on a larger scale. 

Remote work has created challenges for both employers and employees as it can be tough to ensure employees are engaged and thriving. The transition to remote working also removes the personal context of interaction between the staff. Here are few tips that can help managers support employees while working remotely.

Set expectations early and clearly

• Provide guidelines, set deadlines and review the work often. 
• Provide clarity about milestones, performances and more.
• Be accessible to employees as there will be questions. 
• Keep staff updated of policies, staff changes, company successes and more.

Be organized yet flexible

• Allow flexible hours to maintain consistency.
• Have a concrete plan but be open to the strategies being adjusted as needed. 
• Do not worry whether you employees choose to put their hours in the morning or evening as long as the work is being done. 

Track the success 

• Have them give you a work plan outlining the tasks they are expected to complete within a given time. It will reduce your fear and also help them structure their work. 

Communicate regularly

• It is crucial to keep communication alive with the staff. It keeps workers updated with the deadlines, work related challenges, and your expectations. 
• Determine what communication tool to use and what frequency to keep for the communication. 

Be a listener

• Successful employers are good listeners. Inquire about the workload, offer help and additional support.  Avoid micromanagement!
• Build connections and be available to all team members. Avoid making some employees feel isolated.