Many companies set their employees up to work remotely once COVID-19 got a foothold in the United States. This means many workers are telecommuting for the first time, and managers are suddenly overseeing remote teams.
Managing working remotely during the coronavirus outbreak can be challenging, especially for the uninitiated. Luckily, it’s possible to get on solid ground quickly. Here are some important tips that can make it easier to handle.
Outline Communication Pathways
Communication is critical for remote teams. Ideally, several mechanisms need to be in place. Certain services – like many video conferencing solutions – are seeing demand skyrocket. On occasion, this has led to issues, so a degree of redundancy is necessary.
Additionally, employees and managers need to be on the same page regarding which options are used when. Initially, it’s wise for managers and workers to have a quick discussion to outline communication preferences and requirements. For example, should non-urgent messages come through collaboration software chat, email, or another mechanism? If it’s an emergency, is a phone call better?
By creating communication standards, everyone knows what sort of information will come in via different approaches. This can limit confusion and ensure that everyone is using the same methods for specific kinds of information, simplifying, and organization communication overall.
Track Project Time
Time tracking software can be helpful as everyone starts working remotely due to the COVID-19 outbreak. It allows employees and managers to have a greater awareness of how time is being spent. Plus, it may alert workers and company leaders if a project is falling behind, allowing for earlier intervention.
Even if a team’s responsibilities aren’t changing, the shift to telecommuting could impact productivity. This is especially true early on, as not everyone is going to acclimate to the new paradigm as quickly.
With time tracking, there’s more visibility, and that could ensure that potential issues can be addressed as soon as possible. That way, employees can receive guidance that helps them reach full productivity faster. Just make sure that you are reasonable about your expectations, as each worker will adjust at a different pace.
Schedule Regular Check-ins
Having employees and managers touch base regularly is essential if remote working arrangements are going to be a success. Frequent check-ins mean each party can make sure the other is aware of the current status of projects and COVID-related changes to company policies.
Plus, it serves as a mechanism for keeping working relationships strong and creates opportunities for everyone to ask questions, discuss concerns, or get guidance. The conversations can even be a bit social, giving everyone some valuable time to connect with a colleague.
Ultimately, the important tips above for working remotely can increase the odds that a team will adapt successfully and remain productive during COVID-19. If you’d like to learn more about how to telecommute successfully, the skilled staff at The Squires Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our knowledgeable and experienced team today and see how our remote work expertise can benefit you.
