These days remote work is no longer just a trend – it’s a necessity. As a result, managers and team leaders are suddenly required to manage their teams remotely. If you’ve never done it before, or you’re not prepared, it can be daunting.
If that’s you, here are some tips and ideas to help you meet these challenges!
- Conduct Daily Check-ins – For now, face-to-face and one-on-one meetings are a thing of the past. Video meetings can make things easier to connect. At first, set-up a morning check-in every day. Set the agenda, provide feedback, and the resources your team needs for the day.
- Use Available Technology – Your job as a manager is to keep your team together. Communications tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack are great for collaboration and communication. Some tools are available for free right now.
- Manage Expectations – Times are challenging and it’s time to reset expectations. Help your team figure out what to do, and create clear expectations for your team, and for yourself! Give your team the tools for success by clearly establishing tasks and the reasons behind them. Make sure you know how you define success. Define the scope of work, important deadlines, and what deliverables are expected.
- Focus on the Outcome – You can’t manage every aspect of remote work. Instead avoid focusing on the activity, or the hours your team is putting in, and instead focus on outcomes.
- Give Your Team the Resources They’ll Need! – Have the technology available that your team needs to get the job done. Are they prepared for remote work? Provide the laptops, mobile devices, and high-speed connections they’ll need. Don’t assume everyone on your team is prepared to work from home. It’s your responsibility to make sure they have everything they need.
With today’s uncertainty, flexibility is key. Your team will have a lot going on establishing their new routines at home. Make sure you clearly define expectations and trust in your team. Give them the flexibility to get the job done in a way that works for everyone!
