4 Tips to Effectively Manage Remote Workers
As a small business owner or entrepreneur, you may find yourself in the position of managing remote workers. Whether your team is working remotely by choice or due to circumstances beyond your control, you can do a few things to ensure that everyone is on the same page and productive.
1. Set team milestones.
When everyone is in the same physical space, it's easy to keep track of who is working on what and how progress is being made. When team members are spread out, it can be more difficult to stay up-to-date on what needs to be done and when. To combat this, set milestone deadlines for your team so everyone knows what needs to be accomplished and by when. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and avoid any potential confusion or frustration.
2. Connect with others.
Just because your team isn't in the same physical space doesn't mean you can't connect with them on a personal level. Make an effort to check in with each member of your team regularly, whether it's through weekly one-on-one video chats or simply sending a message asking how their day is going. Staying connected will help build trust and rapport within your team, which can go a long way towards making everyone feel like they're part of a cohesive unit.
3. Aim ahead.
In addition to setting milestone deadlines, it's also helpful to have an overall vision of where your business will be in the future. Share this vision with your team so they understand not only what needs to be done in the short term but also why it's important in the big picture. This will help keep everyone motivated and focused on the task at hand.
4. Utilize teamwork technology.
There are a number of tools and technologies available that can help remote teams work together more effectively. Platforms like Slack or Zoom allow for real-time communication, while project management tools like Asana or Trello can help keep track of tasks and deadlines. Utilizing these tools will help make sure everyone is on the same page and working towards common goals.
Managing remote workers doesn't have to be complicated; you can set your team up for success with a few simple tips. By setting milestone deadlines, staying connected with others, aiming ahead, and utilizing teamwork technology, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page and productive - no matter where they're located.
