Working Digitally
I still remember visiting my cousin who was working at home Pre-Covid due to some physical health issues. He was watching the Golf Channel. I thought “What a gig!” But I knew him to be a conscientious employee who worked on-call as an IT Specialist. He could be counted upon. As a Consultant and a type of distance worker, I face the same challenges of personal discipline.
Years later he worked at home during Covid. But this time Management remained connected to distance workers via Microsoft Teams. It was an effective tactic in a challenging technical world. But he still faces the temptations of being a distance worker: food, friends, errands, personal Internet usage, etc.
But it did set me thinking: how does a manager control distance workers? Everyday Management is difficult enough. What else can be done beyond connecting via technology? The Covid Era has forced us to confront many traditional ideas about Management. We’re still working through them today.
I hope you enjoy them.
(Which reminds me… I’ve gotta go. I think the Golf Channel is on.)
Cara Hernandez identifies many of these issues and solutions for managing the distance worker in the article below.
David Wudyka
The Flexible Future: Creating a Dynamic Remote Work Culture
by Cara Hernandez, Founder, Standout Ventures (standoutventures.info)
Imagine a world where your morning commute is just a short walk to your home office, and your schedule is as flexible as your yoga instructor. This isn't a far-off dream; it's the reality of remote work, a transformative approach to reshaping the modern workplace. As a business leader, adapting to this change not only benefits your team but also boosts your company's overall productivity and morale.
Increases Job Satisfaction
Remote work enhances work-life balance by eliminating commutes, giving employees more time for personal health and family, leading to increased job satisfaction. This respect for personal life fosters deeper loyalty and commitment among employees. Such balance is not merely a perk but a crucial element in building a dedicated and enthusiastic workforce.
Guarantees Productivity
In a world where remote work is the norm, cloud-based solutions are the resources that connect your team. These tools break down geographical barriers, enabling real-time collaboration, project management, and communication. Whether your team is spread across different time zones or just prefers working in varied environments, cloud-based software ensures that everyone stays on the same page.
Builds Community Virtually
Here's where creativity meets connectivity. Check this out: Organize engaging virtual events and send out custom, visually appealing invitations to boost participation. These events, ranging from virtual coffee breaks to online escape rooms, are essential for fostering community and teamwork in your digital workspace, bridging the emotional gap of physical distance and making every team member feel valued and connected.
Equips Teams for Excellence
Transitioning to remote work requires more than just a laptop and an internet connection. Your team needs skills in time management, digital tool proficiency, and setting up ergonomic home workspaces. Providing these training resources isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about empowering your employees to excel in a digital-first world. This investment in their development pays dividends in productivity and job satisfaction.
Ensures Uninterrupted Operations
The backbone of remote work is a robust IT infrastructure. Reliable IT support and secure access to company networks and data are non-negotiable for seamless remote operations. Your team should never feel stranded in the digital realm. Strong IT support ensures that help is just a call or message away, making remote work as reliable as traditional office environments, if not more.
Promotes Wellness Beyond Work
A key aspect of remote work is setting clear boundaries between professional and personal life. Encourage your team to disconnect after work hours and provide wellness programs and mental health support. This isn't merely about preventing burnout; it's about nurturing a workforce that is mentally, emotionally, and physically fit. A happy team is a productive team, and your investment in their well-being reflects your commitment to their holistic success.
Encourages Continuous Improvement
Creating an effective remote work environment is an ongoing process. Regularly solicit feedback from your team on their experiences and challenges with remote work and flexible scheduling. This feedback loop is essential for fine-tuning your policies and practices, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of your workforce. It's a conversation, a two-way street where your team's insights shape the future of your workplace.
Empowers Employees
Empower your employees by offering flexible work hours. This freedom allows them to work during their most productive hours as long as they meet their responsibilities and deadlines. Flexibility is a powerful motivator; it acknowledges that your team members are unique individuals with varying productivity rhythms. Trusting them to manage their time effectively can lead to remarkable improvements in performance and job satisfaction.
As you navigate the evolving landscape of remote work, remember that flexibility, collaboration, and support are the pillars of a successful remote work environment. By embracing these principles, you not only adapt to the changing times but also lead the charge in creating a more dynamic, satisfied, and productive workforce. The future of work isn't just about where we work; it's about how we work together, even when we're apart.