Although we are inclined to believe that our employees are well settled and in a system of hybrid and remote working, we cannot become complacent in ensuring support is readily available. Employees that work well in an office environment can still struggle in a hybrid or remote setting. The lack of clear processes and team support that is accessible in the office can have an impact on employee productivity and efficiency within their tasks. The added distractions of hybrid and remote working can waiver attention to details, however the positive news is that we can offer some tips to assist in improving this productivity.
1. Check-In Schedules
It is imperative that the team lead or manager creates weekly team planning video calls and individual check in calls with their employees. This allows the team lead/manager to gauge the progress of each user professionally. However, striking the perfect balance between micromanaging (where managers closely observe and control the work of their employees) and macromanaging (a more independent style where managers step back and give employees the freedom to do their job) can prove tricky with hybrid and remote work. You don’t want a level of social isolation to take hold. Brief, yet informative check-ins are more than adequate, you are allowing the employee to know that you are mindful that they are in a different environment and that you have interest in their productivity and progress in this setting yet, offers a level of trust an autonomy to get their work complete efficiently. It is important to note as a team lead or manager to always leave the door open for individual employees to reach out, and request more contact on a team or individual basis.
2. Time Management
The perception of time can differ for employees between hybrid/remote working and office environments. As tasks may require different tools and platforms in a remote/hybrid setting, the completion rates may take longer to achieve. For example, something as simple as asking an employee in the same office for assistance on a matter that usually could be resolved in several minutes may take longer in a hybrid/remote environment as employees do not have that instant communication unless they are using the correct tools. Microsoft teams instant chat or zoom are example of tools that are beneficial in a hybrid/remote working environment. Even then, employee availability may be unclear and they may not receive the response quickly. Another helpful solution is teaching employees how best to prioritise their work tasks. Setting specific yet realistic deadlines to adhere to can be hugely beneficial. Including tips to stay motivated, focused and improve multitasking skills. These are all excellent solutions to assist in maximising productivity.
3. Specific Remote Training for Employees
Perhaps the most effective way to assist your employees to maximise their productivity while remote working would be to provide them with comprehensive training on how best to adapt to the remote environment. This training needs to be delivered on a platform that is easily accessible and offers an element of support. Highlighting the learning objectives for the training clearly is crucial – describing how you intend to assist in all aspects of their work, both professionally and personally. Ensure your employees know what is expected of them when it comes to remote work, and reassure them that they will not be isolated. Things that seem minor, like checking to make sure log in details are working correctly for tools and platforms etc can make all the difference for a remote worker. When you are confident that both management and employees have an understanding of what is expected than the remote working can proceed. Ensuring this from the offset will lead to maximum productivity.
We can all agree that remote and hybrid working provides challenges for employees but the good news is we can offer solutions for our employees. Simple check-ins, time management and training can prove most effective in enhancing the productivity and efficiency of remote and hybrid workers.