Leading a Remote Team in Covid 19
Many have found themselves managing a remote team these last weeks. It may have been unexpected, it was certainly unheralded!
So for those that have, I have scoured the resources for some Quick Tips to help you on your way
Communication & Trust
You must give trust to your team members and use clear communication.
Provide clear goals and expectations so each team member knows what their daily priorities are, and trust your team to deliver their work.
Make it clear that you are available as usual if a team member has any unexpected issues or stressors because of remote working.
Expectations
Develop and implement clear remote work policies
All businesses should have clearly defined policies to address virtual work concerns and best practices. A good remote working policy will clearly outline how employees should manage their working time and balance business needs with commitments - which for some will be extra challenging in the current circumstances.
Tools & Technologies
Assuming that Employees have all the hardware and software they need to work properly, it’s also important to ensure everyone knows how to use any new collaboration technologies (Zoom, Teams etc) which may be newly implemented. These tools will also enable your team to communicate internally and with clients or customers.
Engage Daily
Make sure to engage with your remote employees daily
A daily Videocon can help keep a team together, engaged, and accountable. It can be used to assess workloads and discuss any issues. Do not forget to check how team member feel and asking if they need any extra support.
Try not to do everything by email, as video calls or a regular phone call can be invaluable and much more personal than an email.
Empathy
These are unprecedented times and the stress will affect everyone differently. Please be empathetic & encouraging to your team. Try to ensure everyone is taking social breaks (be that a call or a regular chat with a co-worker). In a typical co-working space, there are many such interactions in a day, and they are a crucial part of any company culture.
Flexibility
During this WFH time, flexibility will be invaluable to ensure employees can work productively while managing families or other care needs.
Ensure that team members who you think may require extra support or guidelines know that you are available to help and advise. Remember that team members without children may have similar challenges in caring for a family member or a complex living situation.
Allowing the team to move towards “shifts” or adjusted working hours can be helpful.
Hopefully there are some pointers in there to help you keep your team positive, productive and engaged.