- Remote work has increased by 159% since 2005 and 140% since 2014.
- Effective communication, real-time communication, project management, and cloud storage and file-sharing tools are vital for keeping remote employees connected and engaged.
- Technical assistance and protection, such as using two-factor authentication and VPN, can ensure the safety of digital assets, employee information, and passwords against cyber threats.
- Providing necessary equipment like a computer, webcam, ergonomic chair, and desk is crucial for remote employees to work efficiently and productively.
Remote work has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Technological advancement makes it possible to work anywhere, revolutionizing the traditional office setup. The trend has picked up momentum in recent years, with more and more companies adopting remote work policies.
According to a report by FlexJobs, remote work has increased by 159% since 2005. The report also reveals that there has been a significant increase in the number of people who work remotely full-time, with a 22% increase in the last five years. Another study found that the number of remote employees in US companies has increased by 140% since 2014.
With the rise of remote work, employers must find effective ways to keep their remote employees connected and engaged. A disconnected workforce leads to lower productivity and employee dissatisfaction. Here are some steps employers should consider when fostering a strong connection with their remote team:
Establish Communication
Communication is one of the most critical factors when managing remote employees. As employees work from different locations and time zones, keeping them connected is essential to ensure their engagement and productivity. Lack of communication is one of the significant drawbacks of remote work, leading to an isolated work environment and decreased collaboration. Therefore, businesses must establish effective communication strategies and use the necessary tools to promote a well-connected remote workforce.
Real-time Communication Tools
Effective communication requires real-time interaction among employees. Real-time communication tools provide instant access to chat, video, and audio collaboration tools that enable employees to work together in real time. Such tools can facilitate remote team meetings, brainstorming, and training sessions. Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Skype are popular choices for real-time communication.
Project Management Tools
Project management tools enable remote team members to collaborate effectively and track progress. These tools help remote team members manage resources, assign tasks, track time, monitor progress, and share project files effortlessly. Project management tools such as Asana, Trello, and Jira can help remote teams stay organized and on track.
Cloud Storage and File-sharing Tools
Cloud storage and file-sharing tools help remote team members share, store, and collaborate on documents effortlessly. It provides a centralized location to store project files, making it easier for team members to access documents from any place or time. Google Drive, Dropbox, and Sharepoint can help remote teams collaborate on documents.
Virtual Meeting Tools
Virtual meeting tools provide real-time audio and video conferencing options allowing remote team members to communicate and collaborate. Virtual meeting tools enable businesses to conduct meetings, webinars, training, and presentations effortlessly. Virtual meeting tools such as Zoom, GoToMeeting, and Skype can help remote teams stay connected and communicate effectively.
Provide Technical Assistance and Protection
To ensure their work is secure, technical assistance and protection are essential for remote employees. With all the data stored in cloud-based systems, it’s more important than ever that companies protect their digital assets, employee information, and passwords against cyber threats. Using secure protocols such as two-factor authentication, encryption technology, and virtual private networks (VPN) to connect to the company’s network securely from anywhere ensures that all interactions with sensitive data are done safely.
Furthermore, when providing remote support or helpdesk services to remote teams, you must provide a method of technical assistance that is both secure and reliable. TeamViewer is one solution for providing quick technical support. However, more reliable TeamViewer alternatives offer distinct features, such as file-sharing capabilities between devices and detailed audit trail logging, which can be used by IT personnel to troubleshoot any issues quickly during a call or chat session.
By providing adequate technical assistance and protection, employers will maximize productivity while ensuring their distributed workforce remains safe from potential cybersecurity risks while they work remotely.
Equipment Provisions
In addition to effective communication strategies and technical assistance, businesses must provide equipment for their remote employees. Providing the necessary equipment ensures that remote employees have access to the tools they need to stay productive and engaged. Without proper equipment, remote employees may face technical difficulties that could lead to delays and decreased productivity.
Having a reliable computer is essential for remote workers to perform tasks efficiently. A good laptop or desktop computer with an adequate processor, memory, and storage ensures remote employees can work without lag or downtime.
Webcams have become an essential tool for remote work as they allow employees to participate in virtual meetings and provide a visual presence to remote colleagues. Video conferencing and screen sharing can increase collaboration, making a webcam an essential piece of equipment.
Remote employees who work from home may not have access to an ergonomic office space. A comfortable, ergonomic chair and desk can significantly improve physical comfort and reduce work stress and fatigue.
Final Thoughts
Businesses must ensure their remote employees are connected and engaged to make the most of remote work. Establishing effective communication strategies, providing technical assistance and protection, and providing necessary equipment can help employers foster strong connections with their distributed workforce. By implementing these steps, businesses can maximize productivity and achieve higher employee satisfaction in the long run.
