The COVID-19 epidemic prompted many organizations to rethink their work policies. This includes those that pertain to remote work. Some companies have switched to a completely remote work model while others maintain an office but hire remote employees to work on specific roles or projects. Employers and remote workers benefit from the flexibility of the arrangement. The former can save on real estate and space costs, and attracts talent from all over the world and mitigates geographic limitations while the latter is able to balance professional and personal obligations.
However, transferring teams from the office to a remote workplace requires more than a reliable internet connection and file-sharing applications. It requires planning that includes onboarding, training and establishing metrics for success. It is also crucial to have the right tools and equipment for a remote workforce.
It’s essential, for instance, to set clear expectations for virtual communications and to not overwhelm employees with messages. Managers should instead schedule regular check-ins and establish guidelines for calls made via virtual channels. They this should also provide the right tools for tracking productivity and workflow. Trello for instance, is a productivity tracker which can help managers monitor the progress of their teams.
It’s also crucial to search for the best remote work jobs that suit your abilities and experience. Software solutions allow remote work in areas such as client interactions and project management, which previously relied on face-toface interaction. Salespeople can also utilize online platforms to interact with customers and manage their pipelines from afar. Other professions that have adapted well to remote work include recruitment, accounting and human resources as well as operations.