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How Can Managers Support Their Teams Remotely

Online Sales Training

October 21st, 2020   |   Updated on March 5th, 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we operate. And now, many people are working remotely.

For companies that didn’t have a set of remote work policies, they’re having a difficult time keeping things in order.

But, there are some ways managers can ensure that workers remain productive when working remotely.

Here are tips on how to work remotely as a team.

1. Provide Multiple Modern Communication Channels

Email alone isn’t enough. Remote workers are more productive when they have various communication options including video conferencing that gives participants some visual cues that they’d have in face-to-face communication.

You can also provide mobile-enabled messaging channels like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Slack, etc.

2. Always Communicate Every Covid-19 Update

Every day, there’s new information on COVID-19. And managers need to ensure that their teams are well-updated on this matter.

Always communicate the news with your employees to keep them in the know about how this pandemic is affecting the company, their employment as well as work.

And while doing that, ensure clarity and honesty in your communication. It’s also wise that you provide additional resources if possible.

The silence or uncertainty of the management creates fear and confusion among employees. But if you communicate clearly and openly, they’ll feel secure, even if it’s bad news.

3. Appreciate Your Team

One of the ways managers show care to their employees is by appreciating them.

Even when they’re working remotely, there are still ways you can appreciate your staff.

Recognize those that are doing well and appreciate them in team meetings or send them a private email or you can also send them messages of gratitude and encouragement.

4. Promote Self-Care And Stress-Buster Activities

Encourage your workers to take care of themselves throughout. You can outline some self-care ideas in the team meetings or start an ongoing conversation for workers to share self-care tips and check how their colleagues are doing.

It’s also wise that you allow them some time off from work, and let them relax with hobbies or activities of their choice, which extend beyond the stereotypical activities such as yoga and meditation.

Managers should also set healthy work boundaries along with reasonable virtual office hours. Tell them how you’re taking care of yourself and support their self-care efforts.

5. Outline The Expectations

Shifting to remote working might be difficult for your teams at work especially now with these tough times.

Your workers might be struggling to adjust to the new workflow while still taking care of their families.

It’s why you should ensure that they know what you’re expecting from them in terms of communication, performance, availability as well as deadlines.

Note that everyone will make some changes in their schedule so knowing what is expected from them from the beginning will help keep things organized.

6. Do Wellness Checks From Time-Time

You should always know how your workers are doing. Managers should check in with their employees to ensure that things are doing well and know how they’re overcoming the daily struggles of life.

If any worker is having a difficult time, individually contact them to talk about the problem and support them in the ways you can, including adjusting their performance goals and deadlines or taking a different communication strategy.

Final Thoughts

Managing remote employees has a lot of work just like managing those on location. But, don’t assume that remote employees are the same as those working in an office.

Remote working comes with unique challenges that managers should understand to effectively manage their teams.

Thankfully, implementing these six tips will help you as well as your employees to remain productive while working remotely.