Make Remote Work Your Best Work

For so many of us, the new norm, our new common denominator, is remote working. Whether you are a cynical beginner or a seasoned pro, there are things you can do to make this a productive chapter in your career. I have been remote working for 16 years quite successfully and below I’ve organized my best practices, both for leaders of remote teams and for all individuals who find themselves in this position.  

Tips on managing a remote team

This unprecedented time in our world’s history is challenging us all to live, work and connect in new ways. As someone who is now leading a remote working team during a crisis situation, you well know that creating community and new working norms takes time and discipline. Although you may already have a good handle on this, below are some tips on managing in this environment because it looks and feels different for so many of us. 

First, lead with compassion and empathy. Our shared humanity is what will help us all survive this time and employees may need more flexibility than they have had in the past to take care of their family priorities – children, elder parents, spouses, siblings, etc.    Your employees will remember and remain loyal to the person who guided them through this crisis with calm and supportive leadership. This does not mean that you should be hands-off, rather it is super important to have frequent team and individual check-ins so that you are aware and sensitive to each employee’s situation.

Second, be mindful about your employee preferences. Many employees being required to work from home have never worked virtually before so keep in mind that even minor things can make a big difference. Ask a lot of questions about how your employees want to receive feedback during this time and about their meeting preferences (videoconferencing 1-to-1, group chats, etc.) and ensure that all employees who are required to work from home have access to the company’s collaboration tools. This will show you are mindful of what is important to them and will reinforce virtual teamwork.

Third, step up your own communication efforts. When teams are physically dispersed, it is hard to keep a handle on who knows what, who has the latest project knowledge, etc. so communicating and reinforcing context in writing, 1-on-1s and team meetings is paramount.  Your communication efforts should include an ongoing process for demonstrating that you are in touch with employee sentiment during this time and that you hear their concerns.

Tips for individuals working from home

The decision companies are making to have everyone work at home is in support of our collective social responsibility to prevent the virus spreading further. But it does mean many of us are having to organize and find new ways to approach our work. Below are some tips on how to make working from home a productive and fulfilling experience for you.  

Set a schedule and try to stick to it. Maintaining regular office hours will help you create the habits and routines that will make you successful. Having a clear plan for when you are working and when you will wrap up your work will help you feel in control and ensure you are maintaining a healthy work-life balance. It can also help to establish a morning routine with a symbolic moment that signals the start of your workday.  

Create rules and set boundaries for your new schedule. So many of us are now sharing our homes and home offices with other working family members or children home from school. Have a family discussion and set-up ground rules for what is and is not acceptable while you are working. Determine when and how you will take breaks and ask your loved ones to honor your plans so that you can connect in purposeful ways when you have the time set aside. 

Set up a desk / working space for success. In the ideal world, remote workers would have a dedicated office. But since so many of us are working from home unexpectedly, we understand you may not have this set up. That said, you should think through whether its possible to set up a space in your home that can serve as your office. You will want to think through your access to a functioning phone line, your cell service coverage, creating some sort of physical boundary for the space, a comfortable desk chair, etc. 

Reach out to your colleagues and clients. Some people may find working remotely to be challenging on a social level, especially if you are an extrovert and prefer to work- and be- around people most of the time. Use your chat channels, set-up virtual coffee breaks and when you are in meetings, be sure to speak up and be heard.  

How are you adjusting to the new work environment? I’m available to discuss your remote work challenges at mkasper@solomonedwards.com.