Operating a flexible working approach in your business has become more and more popular now.
Indeed, we have used this model very successfully ourselves for several years.
Whilst it is easy to manage people when they are all based in the same office, it is not so easy when they are based at home.
So, how can you ensure remote members of your team are still engaged?
The key is making sure they feel valued. In short, rewarding and recognising good performance.
- Give praise where praise is due – don’t dish praise out like sweets when someone is doing what you expect, but do make sure, when they do a good job, or really pull out all the stops, you thank them.
- Reward appropriately – this isn’t just about pay, although that is an important factor, but could mean a small gift, some time off, even a call or handwritten note from you
- Be honest and sincere – don’t praise because you feel you should, do it because you genuinely mean it
- Be flexible – remember that’s why you instigated remote working. Some of your team may be burning the midnight oil, so they can watch their child’s sports day – so don’t be critical without knowing the facts.
- Communication – as is so often the case, this is really the cornerstone to making it work. Keep in touch. Tell them what is going on. Make sure they feel welcome in the office, and indeed organise team sessions so they all catch up.