Seven keys to managing remote workers
Published March 26, 2014 6:05 PM
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Updated March 28, 2014 10:19 AM
1 Min Read
1. Make sure that your remote worker has a dedicated workspace
Too often remote workers that do not have these dedicated spaces can get distracted by the tasks of family life or managing their kids. Lighthouse Consulting CEO Dana Borowka, and Ellen Borowka, chief operating officer of the firm that offers work style and personality assessment services for companies, state that employers should make sure their employees are focused on work and have the space to do it. [Images: Shutterstock]
To succeed with remote workers, the trick is to find the great people who are self-motivating and can concentrate better without the distractions of a traditional office, says Dana Borowka.
To succeed with remote workers, the trick is to find the great people who are self-motivating and can concentrate better without the distractions of a traditional office, says Dana Borowka.
2. Have managers and remote staff take personality tests
With a personality test, managers and remote staff can work forward to productive communications on expectations and goals. This added dynamic can help supervisors and staff for the long run.
3. Provide all the necessary tools for the remote worker
It is probably wise to provide employees with a computer, printer and other technologies that are deemed essential to the required job function.
4. Communication is key
Maintaining consistent check-ins with remote staff can apprise office staff and management of daily workflow and long term projects.
Since you can't just walk by their desk to check in, it is crucial that tools and processes be put into place that will allow you and your employees to remain connected, he adds.
Since you can't just walk by their desk to check in, it is crucial that tools and processes be put into place that will allow you and your employees to remain connected, he adds.
5. Make sure that remote staff can maintain social connections to other employees
In order to maintain a teams collaborative nature, remote staff should consistently hold conversations with office staff and arrange for them to come to the office a couple of times a year.
6. Set goals to measure worker progress
Because management will not interact with remote staff daily, executives are recommended to offer feedback on ongoing projects and completed work. This can help remote workers to measure their progress and improve.
7. Do not let remote workers be out of sight, out of mind
In Dana and Ellen Borowkas new book, Cracking the Business Code, it is highlighted that management should include remote staff in discussions over career advancement at their company. Also, it is important to include this group on committees and job tasks where their expertise will be valued.
