Business leaders are only going to be confident allowing their employees to work remotely if they know how to maximize their productivity
Not so long ago the topic of remote working was a discussion. Nowadays, though, it has become widely accepted as the next step in business. Business leaders have come to accept that, when done right, it can have an enormously beneficial impact on their operations by improving employee engagement, productivity levels and happiness. However, it is too easy to overlook the important part of that statement, which is the phrase when done right.
Best Ways To Manage The Productivity Of Remote Workers Click To TweetNo business leader is just going to be happy to let their employees work from home, while still paying their huge salaries on the blind belief that 60% of the companies that have embraced remote working have seen productivity go up. While this may be true, business leaders are only going to be confident allowing their employees to work remotely if they know how to maximize their productivity and that is exactly what we are going to give you guidance on.
First, Decide If It Is A Good Fit Â
There are two areas of consideration when looking at this and the first is to do with the work itself. You see, not all jobs are created equally in terms of work from home. Those roles that only require a computer, phone access and internet connection are ideal candidates, so graphic design, copywriting, sales etc. Other positions may not be so suited. The other area that requires consideration is the employee in question. This is because not everyone has that same natural-level of motivation to crack on with the work without being overseen. So make a decision on the person as well as the role.
Track Performance And Presence
In this day of technological awesomeness, you have the option to use mobile workforce management software to track and monitor the attendance of your employees in real-time, which will give you peace of mind that they are putting the time in. However, it is just as important to measure their productivity through their performance. You see, part of the reasons why flexible working succeeds is because it allows employees to work to their preferences. That could mean starting at 4.30am and finishing at midday or pulling an all-nighter. Sure, they may be required to attend meetings at a set time, but leniency should be allowed. So long as they are getting the work done to the quality you desire, what is the issue? Let them work at their peak and take up qualms only when there is an issue with their performance.
Have All The Tools In Place
The main concern you probably having with going remote is the logistics of getting everyone singing off the same hymn sheet and getting them together for a meeting. Groups emailing back and forth to try and set a time where everyone is available is just not productive. So, instead of this, set up a shared calendar to improve transparency and efficiency. Don’t stop there, though. Another way to improve efficiency – and use a little face-time to boost morale – is through virtual meeting tools. Yes, it is a good idea to have employees working remotely to come into the office once a week or a couple of time a month to engage with their colleagues, but tools like video chat will help them stay connected and that will have a profound effect on their individual and collective output.