2020 saw a big shift towards remote working. In fact, now some 74% of companies plan to shift at least some of their employees to working remotely on a permanent basis. As someone working in IT, you have probably had experience with remote working before, but now, with entire teams and departments working from home, it might be a challenge to manage everyone.
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Talk to each other regularly
You may be miles apart, but that doesn’t mean you have to be strangers! Now more than ever, it’s important to keep channels of dialogue open between management, employees, and the team as a whole. Try and schedule regular video group meetings and one-to-ones in order to discuss things in an interpersonal manner. Doing so will improve communication, help get rid of any issues, and encourage people to talk to each other.
Many misunderstandings can happen via email and social media, so speaking properly is a great way to smooth things over. While it means putting a smart top on, brushing your hair, and remembering how to interact with your fellow humans, it is well worth the effort. Maintaining regular contact between the team will improve morale, teamwork, and productivity.
Invest in the right software
Remote working may have been sprung on you in 2020, but, this year, there is no excuse for not being prepared. Remote working can save a lot of time and money, but it does involve investment. Ensuring you and your team have the correct and optimum software needed to work seamlessly from home, is essential. For example, remote management software is top of the list.
This allows you to access employees’ or clients’ computers to help them troubleshoot, show them what to do, or complete tasks for them. For years, the most popular one has been TeamViewer but there are now a range of TeamViewer alternatives that offer great value, strong features, and are geared up for your requirements. Other software to consider includes a CMS, task manager, video conferencing subscription, and, of course, any industry-specific software your team needs.
Keep up with company culture
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Many IT firms pride themselves on their company culture. After work drinks, team building days, parties, gym memberships- the list goes on. But now many of us are working from home, this doesn’t mean the team should miss out. As management, you need to find a way to keep morale high and continue the company spirit of making employees feel appreciated.
It’s time to be creative and find ways to support them while working from home. Perhaps subscriptions to online entertainment services, money towards home fitness equipment, vouchers for online shopping, and virtual drinks on a Friday- there are many ways you can keep your team happy while times are hard.
Be more flexible
Last but not least, you have to be flexible. Working from home or remotely brings with it a whole range of challenges. Power cuts, toddlers and children, dealing with family issues, or just problems with being motivated. You need to support your team and give them some flexibility to operate in a way that suits them. Adjusting to remote working can take some time and by letting them set their own hours, you can really help them along.
Just remember, this is a challenge for everyone but by upping communication and investing in the right kit, you can definitely help the process along.
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