5 Tips For Managing Remote Employees

What are the tips for managing remote employees?

1. Take Advantage of Technology
2. Establish Structured Check-Ins
3. Manage Expectations
4. Focus On Outcomes, Not Processes
5. Offer Emotional Support

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the majority of workforces adopting remote work settings. During these unprecedented times, managers and top entrepreneurs in the Philippines have been left wondering about the best tips for managing remote employees.

Arguably, leading teams that work out of the office and separated from each other poses unique challenges of its own. Some of the challenges inherent in remote work can include lack of face-to-face supervision, lack of access to information, social isolation, distractions at home, lack of engagement, and even burnout.

Fortunately, there are specific, research-tested methods that managers and business owners can take to improve the engagement and productivity of remote employees, even when there is little to no preparation. Continue reading on to learn more.

Take Advantage of Technology

By now, most companies have been forced down a path of digital transformation that should take months to completely adapt. Business owners must equip their employees to function effectively during remote work. Technological tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Slack are some of the platforms that can be used to ensure employees remain productive. Make sure to take advantage of these.

Consider whether employees should be provided company laptops or internet provisions to combat some of the top technological remote work challenges.

Establish Structured Check-Ins

Employees are often surprised by the added bottlenecks needed to communicate during remote settings. They may find obstacles when asking simple questions because of gaps in communication, especially when based at home.

This is why many successful business owners and managers establish structured check-ins with their remote teams. Structured check-ins could be done in the form of one-on-one calls or team calls for high collaboration. They are regular, predictable, and conducted in a forum in which employees know that they can consult with you or address their concerns.

Manage Expectations

Expectations may start to fall apart during the sudden workplace shift, leaving employees unsure of what to focus on. It is imperative to manage expectations and request feedback to ensure alignment. Do not simply assume that the team understands where they need to focus on currently.

Focus On Outcomes, Not Processes

In the remote landscape, where many employees are juggling work and family responsibilities in their own homes, business owners must allow employees to complete their work in ways that are most convenient and productive for them.

You can clearly define the goals and desired results, but you also have to consider allowing employees to develop an execution plan to achieve them. Emphasize objectives over processes. Providing this flexibility does not only avoid micromanagement burnouts but also empowers employees to enhance their creativity and drive engagement levels.

Offer Emotional Support

In the context of the abrupt shift to remote work and the ongoing pandemic, business owners need to acknowledge employee stress, anxieties, and concerns. Empathize with them and offer emotional support. Even a simple question like “How are you finding remote work so far?” Or “How are you doing?” can elicit important information. Having these conversations and making solutions can very well avoid employee burnout as well.

Key Takeaway

If you’ve thought about becoming an entrepreneur or you are one of the entrepreneurs in the Philippines, you might have begun checking out the tips for managing remote employees. During these unprecedented times, remote work poses unique challenges for employees and business owners alike. The good thing is, there are effective tips for managing remote employees.

For professional advice in entrepreneurship in the Philippines, click here to contact Benito Keh. As one of the most Filipino successful entrepreneurs, he can provide insightful strategies to skyrocket your business for success, even in the online setting.