A remote possibility?

Following the mass rollout of the UK’s Covid-19 vaccination programme and the subsequent gradual lifting of restrictions in the UK throughout Summer and Autumn 2021, many felt that a semblance of “normality” had returned to life.

As such, the rapid escalation of positive Covid-19 cases, the swift move to the government’s Plan B and the mandate to work from home from 13 December 2021 was a stark reminder of the ongoing fragility of the status quo.

In those industries where staff are able work from home, the order to do so again may have meant nothing more than “business as usual”; but almost two years on from the first direction to work remotely, what have we learned?

For each worker who best thrives in the office environment there is one who would be happy never to return to the traditional workplace.  For every boss decrying remote working in the press, there is another reporting plans to allow its staff to be based permanently at home.  

Factors such as workload, type of work, commute, health, and personal circumstances mean that one size simply cannot fit all, and remote vs office working is not a binary issue.  However, whether you love it, loathe it, or feel very much undecided, here are some tips on how to make remote working a success.

1 Equipment and environment

It’s not just about providing a computer and internet access; 2020/2021 saw the popularity of collaborative communication software literally Zoom…suddenly a simple phone call was not enough. Video calls, screensharing and live conferencing have become part of daily life and seem set to remain. Ensuring staff have the right software to work effectively and keep in touch with co-workers for those “water cooler” moments is vital, as is making sure it is used appropriately. If staff use video calls, make sure they understand expectations regarding appearance, know the protocol for addressing their audience and appreciate when (and when not) to be “on mute”.

Regular checking in with staff regarding what the business can do to improve their homeworking environment is also important. Lights, desks, chairs, multiple screens, options for flexible working, scheduled social time with colleagues and clear guidance on expectations when working from home can all massively improve productivity and worker satisfaction.

2 Communication and support

It seems simple but communication really is key. Ask yourself how often and how well the business speaks to its staff and whether the remote workforce knows how to address any work-related needs. Who do they call when the laptop doesn’t work? Who deals with workstream queries? Who do they reach out to when things aren’t going well? Do your staff know that their contribution is seen and appreciated? Is everyone able to feel part of and work as a team? 

Regular – and perhaps anonymous – reviews of performance and satisfaction are good measures of how well the business is managing its home workers which, in turn, and particularly in times of mandatory remote working, is essential for success.  

3 Management and training

The more traditional management techniques may simply not work remotely. Consider providing training for managers to improve their remote management skills and look at whether the business can use flexible working to maximise productivity and satisfaction for those working from home. 

It is also important to consider how more experienced staff can train and support those more junior in the remote environment. Some colleagues may have never met in person so a focus on properly introducing new starters and continually encouraging collaboration at all levels can engender a supportive and productive remote working environment.

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