The COVID-19 pandemic has forced organisations around the world to embrace remote working, bringing about a significant shift in the way people work. Let’s explore the ART of managing remote teams and the importance of balancing individual needs with achieving desired results. Drawing insights from the experiences of remote workers, we will explore the challenges faced and provide valuable strategies for effective remote management.
Ask: Understanding Individual Preferences
A – One crucial aspect of managing remote teams is recognising that different individuals have varying needs and preferences. Some employees thrive on the social interaction of an office environment, while others find increased productivity and flexibility when working remotely.
As a manager, it is essential to communicate with your team and understand their preferences. By asking questions and actively listening, you can gain insights into what works best for each individual and create a supportive work environment, within the company procedures.
Results: Focus on the Outputs
R – A common concern among managers when transitioning to remote work is the loss of control over their team’s activities. However, effective remote management is not about micromanaging; it’s about empowering individuals to achieve results. Instead of fixating on direct supervision and inputs, shift your focus to fostering their growth and development to achieve the results.
Regularly discuss goals, provide constructive feedback, and identify opportunities for skill enhancement. By emphasising individual development, you can create a motivational environment for your team. You can only do this if you have worked out their motivations… see ASK above.
Training: Crucial for Remote Teams
T – Providing training and development opportunities is crucial teams and especially for remote teams. It’s not only about preparing individuals for future roles, more importantly it’s about addressing their current needs and uncertainties. Invest in training programs that help employees build the necessary skills for remote working, such as effective online communication and presentation skills. Prevent boredom setting in invest!
Highlighting Domestic Violence
It’s essential to make yourself aware of domestic violence, particularly in the context of remote working. For individuals facing domestic violence or coercive relationships, the workplace may serve as a lifeline and a sanctuary. Leaders need to be mindful of this and create an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their needs and concerns.
By fostering open communication and providing support, leaders can help create a safer and more supportive work environment for everyone. This type of environment creates great results for everyone. If you are unsure of what to do about these situations then seek help in addressing this and look for people you can refer to. You don’t need to have all the answers. (see Ref below)
Challenges and Benefits
Remote work brings both challenges and benefits. Some people thrive in the remote environment, enjoying freedom and increased productivity. Others find it difficult to adapt, lacking the necessary training and struggling with the lack of social interaction.The importance of asking employees about their preferences and needs should be given emphasis. Understanding what works best for each individual is crucial for creating an effective remote working strategy.
Balance Between Needs and Results
Managing remote teams requires a delicate balance between individual needs, the company’s needs and achieving desired results. By adopting an open and empathetic approach, you can create an environment where employees feel heard, supported, and motivated to excel.
Embrace the ART of managing remote teams by asking your team members about their preferences, focusing the outputs and results not inputs and supporting their growth and development, helping them to prioritise balance. By doing so, you will unlock the full potential of your remote team and drive both individual and collective success in the ever-evolving world of remote working.
PS If you are going through a domestic violence situation or you know someone who needs help, please reach out (in Australia) to:
Jaeneen Cunningham of Safe Haven (Southeast Queensland, Australia)
For girls and young women, contact:
Mel Thomas of The KYUP! Project (Sydney, Australia)
Or the many organisations around the country and around the world who can help.
And, as always, stay true, stay you and keep bringing out your brilliance!
