4 Tips to Consider as You Work Remotely
The concept of working, studying, living our entire lives remotely manifested by the global shelter-in-place mandate is slowly reshaping our world -- in positive and negative ways. In one respect, it is creating new technological advancements, allowing for a fresh workplace culture shift, even inspiring innovation; but on the other hand, it means loss of corporate structure, lack of employee interaction, and makes fostering enthusiasm far more difficult.
SO HOW DOES A SMART LEADER TRANSITION HIS OR HER METHODS TO EFFECTIVELY EMBRACE THIS NEW REALITY?
STOP THINKING OF IT AS TEMPORARY:
Even if you do plan to discontinue remote working once the pandemic ends, thinking of it as temporary will prohibit you from establishing strong practices which can lose your valuable production. So, don't treat it as a band-aid and let things fall through the cracks with the intention of doing clean-up once things are back to "normal." Develop practical, efficient, and structured systems that could go the distance if need be.
FOCUS ON OUTPUT:
Working remotely often means juggling work and family commitments simultaneously. As long as assignments are being completed, try not to get hung up on specifics or strict time frames. Providing flexibility empowers teams to complete their assignments in their own way.
ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH:
ever underestimate the power of team building. Encourage employees to share a little about themselves and to check in about their lives at the top of your meetings. While it may not seem immediately productive, small talk can help create personal connections, build empathy, and strengthen working relationships.
TAKE A BREAK FROM THE SCREEN:
Unlike in person meetings, your energy and focus during video conferences requires a different level of concentration. Since many of us are not driving to meetings or work, we can tend to pack our days with more than we should. Do take a break. Give your eyes a break. Give your mind a break.More and more employers are discovering that there are many benefits to having their teams work remotely. With a few guidelines on how to maintain connection and keep morale high, you may find that working remotely works better for you!
MY QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO REFLECT UPON ARE:
1. What are some effective ways that you can maintain morale within your team? 2. How will you support your team members that are working remotely? 3. What will you do to recharge?