On the list of this pandemic’s silver linings, remote work would definitely be up there. Not only did it help businesses continue to survive, but it also revealed a more flexible way of life for most people.
Hence, it’s no surprise that remote work is here to stay.
However, transitioning to a WFH set-up still takes considerable effort. Employers do have to hire, onboard, and train remote staff to adapt accordingly.
But the sooner you figure out the processes that work for you, the sooner you can start delegating tasks – and enjoying the benefits as well. It’s all about setting things up in the best way possible.
Thus, here are three tips for doing just that when you expand your remote teams:
Consider Your Company Culture
Company values play a huge part in determining the quality of your work environment, even in a remote setting.
For instance, some organisations focus on individual contributions while others emphasise collaborative efforts. Some have a relaxed and flexible environment. Meanwhile, others might follow a more rigid code of conduct at work.
This is why companies often hire people with the same values to maintain their company culture. And it works, not least because it also sends a consistent message to your current team about the kind of culture you’re trying to build.
Without these shared values, it can be difficult to communicate and collaborate. Hence, when filling remote positions, give applicants a glimpse of your company culture as well. This way, both parties can assess whether they’re a good fit for each other.
Brief Your Current Team
In a regular office setting, the manager usually introduces the new additions to the team. S/he also brings everyone up to speed on the new member’s role, designation, workload, immediate head, and teammates too.
This helps everyone get acquainted with the new employee. Furthermore, it also eases the new hire into the team.
Unfortunately, some managers forget to do the same in a remote setting.
Since remote workers don’t share the same office space, many business leaders assume that they can skip the introductory process. The onboarding would only involve discussing job roles and responsibilities. Afterwards, the new remote employee is immediately thrown into the business’ day-to-day operations. Yikes.
According to veteran entrepreneurs, neglecting the introductions can be costly, especially during a busy period. Without this, it will take your current team and the new hire longer to acclimate to each other. Best to let them know where everyone stands from the get-go.
Hence, it’s best to conduct a virtual introduction for everyone involved. Clarify the roles of both new and current team members. Better yet, introduce a new project management tool to keep everyone apprised on what each member is working on.
Appreciate Everyone on the Team
Remote workers are expected to grow in number in the coming years. Thus, it’s practical to start building and investing in them as early as now. However, don’t forget to value your in-house employees, too.
Some tasks really require onsite employees and that’s okay. For instance, engineers in construction firms still have to work on the ground. Production employees have to continue working in factories and warehouses.
At the end of the day, remote workers are here to complement onsite efforts. Don’t forget to appreciate everyone’s contributions so they all feel appreciated and valued.
Having trouble onboarding your remote workers? We’ve got you!
Remote Staff has been helping Australian SMEs and entrepreneurs find skilled remote workers from the Philippines since 2007. We also assist with the onboarding process and provide constant support to ensure a smooth working relationship for everyone involved.
Call us today or schedule a callback and let’s get started.
Serena has been working remotely and writing content for the better part of the last decade. To date, she's written for Pepper.ph and Mabuhay Magazine, among others, and has churned out more than a thousand articles on everything from The Basics of Stock Market Investing to How to Make Milk Tea-Flavored Taho at home. Hermits, aspiring hermits, and non-hermits with interesting project propositions may email her at serena.estrella10@gmail.com.
