Leading and Motivating Remote Teams

The COVID-19 pandemic has tremendously affected many aspects of our daily lives, including how we work and communicate. One of the most significant shifts that have occurred due to the pandemic is remote work. Now, teams are scattered all over the country (and globe) as we all adjust to the new normal.

This transition to working remotely has brought numerous challenges for leaders, managers, and teachers. Not only must leaders ensure their teams are set up with tech tools for online meetings, video conferences, classes, and other virtual events to go smoothly, but there is added pressure around motivating remote teams and supporting these remote workers.

Before the pandemic, 4.7 million people worked from home at least half the week. According to Global Workplace Analytics, 56 percent of the U.S. workforce is compatible with long-term remote work. Experts predict that 25 to 20 percent of workers will telecommute multiple days a week by the end of 2021.

Motivating Remote Teams from Afar.

With trends shifting towards a remote and post-pandemic landscape, it’s important to learn how to keep productivity high and help your team adapt.

• Check in on Your Team. Working remotely can be overwhelming, especially if this is new to you and your team. The nature of remote work makes losing touch with your team members easy. Make sure you check in at least once weekly, whether through a one-on-one meeting or team video conference.  Get face-to-face whenever possible.
• Embrace the Flexibility. Remote work can be difficult for those accustomed to a more structured schedule. Implementing strict processes and procedures for your team can be tempting, but too many boundaries can lead to demotivation. Flexibility is a double-edged sword, however. Too much and you’ll likely suffer from what we call idle flexibility, which can lead to unnecessary stress and lower productivity. By embracing today’s workforce’s flexible nature, you are doing your part to develop a happy, fulfilled team that gets the job done.
• Recognize and Applaud Their Achievements. One of the least effective ways to manage remote teams is by micromanaging them. Alternatively, encourage achievement by applauding accomplishments, whether big or small. By leading with recognition, your team will stay motivated, which will, in turn, help your business thrive.
• Avoid Digital Burnout. We all know by now that digital fatigue is real and affects each one of us differently. Self-care is a huge part of remote work, and leaders need to encourage their team to tune in and pay attention to the signs of burnout, which can contribute to a lack of motivation.

The pandemic undoubtedly accelerated work-from-home trends, presenting new hurdles for leaders and employees alike. We hope the above tips will help you and your team stay motivated and productive – wherever in the world you are. Curious about our video conferencing and VoIP calling services? Let us help you stay connected and take working remotely to the next level!