Managing employees is a bit like conducting an orchestra—directing everyone so that the different parts work together for the good of the whole. So, in that vein, managing virtual teams can feel like you’re conducting that orchestra blindfolded. It’s not impossible; it’s just a special challenge.
With COVID-19 restrictions forcing many employees to work from home, some managers are taking on a challenge they’ve never faced before: managing entire teams remotely.
With 50% of the U.S. workforce expected to be remote by 2020, this trend is not going away anytime soon, so the silver lining to this pandemic may be the opportunity to practice remote management skills. Without effective management, keeping virtual employees productive can be a struggle. However, when managed correctly, virtual employees can be a great asset. The following are four helpful tips for managing virtual employees.
Set the ground rules
Working remotely is different from working in an office. Most notably, you’re not surrounded by your co-workers and supervisors, so work can take on a different dynamic.
In order to ensure efficient employee performance from your virtual workers, it is important that you set the groundwork from day one. Employees should have a dedicated working space and working hours. Within that space and hours, they are expected to be within reach of their phones or computers.
Some firms allow more flexibility than others, but your company’s policy needs to be clearly stated so that employees can be held accountable. If your handbook does not include information related to working remotely, it should be updated to include this information. Most of the policies in the handbook should be all inclusive for both virtual workers and in-house staff.
