Home working doesn’t have to result in a productivity dip

More and more businesses are giving their employees the option to work from home. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, organisations have adapted to remote working, with many choosing to forego the office altogether. This is understandable, as remote working has been shown to provide a number of benefits for staff and management alike, including greater retention, increased flexibility and a more appealing work/life balance.

However, some employers fear that a remote team will be harder to manage. If you share this concern, we’ve got the tips you need to ensure productivity stays high in your business, courtesy of LinkedIn.

Create opportunities for connection

No office means no catch ups by the coffee machine or conversations by the printer. The nature of remote working means more effort is required for teams to converse and connect, so it’s up to you to create opportunities for connection. Video calls, messaging and group activities can all be implemented to develop stronger group relationships, while online collaboration tools allow remote workers to stay in the loop. All of this helps to remind your staff that – even though they are working remotely – they are still part of a team.

Offer remote coaching

We all want to learn, grow and advance in our roles, picking up new skills and capabilities. That’s why offering proper training is so important for effective management, even if your team works remotely.

According to LinkedIn, 74% of businesses feel learning and development is now a strategic function. Employees with access to training are generally more satisfied in their roles, improving retention rates and boosting loyalty.

Online coaching for remote teams can cover a range of topics, from IT security and learning management systems to training solutions and role-specific coaching.

Make sure your staff have the tools they need

Not having access to an office shouldn’t mean that your team can’t access the resources they need to do their job effectively. Hardware like devices and monitors and software like access to cloud solutions and preferred platforms are intrinsic to your staff being able to fulfil their role effectively.

Being unable to work due to a lack of access to necessary tools can lead to frustration, resentment and lower retention. Meanwhile, asking your staff members what they need – and providing it – will make them feel valued in their role and as part of the team.

Observe team dynamics

It can be more difficult to observe and meet with team members when everyone works from a different location, which means you’ll need to put in extra effort to stay connected. Keep an eye on whole team dynamics to see who is thriving and who may be struggling. Let everyone know that you are available if they have any issues. A weekly catch up gives staff a chance to air any concerns and make suggestions for positive change.

Assist with work/life balance

One of the main perks of remote working for staff members is being able to cut the commute out of their day, saving time, while also tailoring a work schedule around other commitments like childcare and family duties.

However, it can also be harder to leave work at work when your office is at home. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reports that 70% of professional who work from home admit to working at the weekend, which can lead to increased stress and burnout.

So it’s up to you to ensure that employees know not to work outside of their contracted hours. Showing some flexibility and sensitivity for your team’s other commitments can make them happier in their role.

Whatever you are seeking help for, TEDCO Business Support are here to help.

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The team at TEDCO Business Support has helped thousands of businesses to grow, supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), so we’re here to support you.

Get in touch today to see how we can help you. Give us a call on 0191 516 61 02 or drop us an email at hello@tedco.org.

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