Ensuring the Productivity of Your Remote Employees
Remote work has been on the rise. Technological advancements have created a more connected global economy. Companies now have more access to skilled and less expensive labor markets. Additionally, Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world. Various governments have imposed lockdowns. While most have lifted these rules, many still encourage people to stay indoors as much as possible. Because of this, more single member LLC business owners chose to give a work-from-home setup.
Managing Your Team
Employees can do many tasks even while they are at home. The Internet has allowed people to stay connected no matter where they are. So, you can easily contact your team members even without meeting face to face.
If you own a single member LLC, chances are you are the one in charge of making the big decisions. You are also responsible for running the company, along with other responsibilities like managing your remote team properly to ensure productivity.
Ensuring Employee Productivity
While remote work offers opportunities and advantages, it also comes with challenges. You do not have the luxury to interact with your team members. You need to make sure that your employees remain happy and productive.
Here are some tips that will help ensure the productivity of your remote employees:
Tip # 1: Constant Communication
You have to keep in mind that constant communication is key. You need to be able to relay messages clearly to prevent misunderstandings and mistakes. You can start by creating an internal communication process. It will also help to have an effective communication tool. For example, some companies use a cloud-based phone system that allows conference calls. That means you can schedule regular meetings with the team. This way, you can make sure that all employees are on the same page.
Aside from that, there are also other tools that will allow your team to communicate. For example, you can use social media platforms or messaging apps. Some apps allow the storing of files so that the whole team can keep track of who is in charge of what. Other sharing platforms also offer online collaboration.
Tip # 2: Meetings
While meetings are important, you would not want to have too many. Some companies think that conducting more meetings will compensate for the lack of face-to-face interactions. But doing too many can waste the time of your employees, which can prevent your team members from focusing on important tasks.
Tip # 3: Clear Guidelines
You also need to have a clear set of rules in place to ensure constant communication. How will your employees communicate with your single member LLC? When does the team have to discuss certain matters?
It may also help if you ask input from your team about the schedule for your communication. Aside from the guidelines, you should also establish goals and expectations. This way, all remote employees know what is expected of them.
Tip # 4: Project Management Tools
Having a work-from-home set up for your team requires you to let go of a little bit of control. Not watching your employees while they work can actually help them be more productive.
Instead of checking on them all the time, you can use management tools that will allow you to set goals for each employee and ensure that they meet the target goals. Some apps have dashboards that let you keep track of employee progress. Using such tools will also help motivate your employees to finish their tasks on time.
Tip # 5: Bonding Opportunities
While it may be hard to conduct team activities, offering some bonding opportunities can help in encouraging teamwork. At the same time, it will also help them be more comfortable with other team members.
Some companies create social media pages that are open to employees only. There, they can share personal stories, discuss in forums, and post activities. Your team can keep conversations going. Some companies even conduct events or contests where they offer prices for people who give the right answer.
Tip # 6: Flexible Time
While some jobs require employees to be available during a set schedule, others may allow more flexibility. For instance, you may have to let your workers have a flexible schedule if their roles are project-based as long as they meet the deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Remote work comes with opportunities and challenges. Keeping your employees motivated and productive is crucial. With the right tools and practices, you can ensure that they remain focused on achieving the goals of your single member LLC.