As the interest in remote work increases globally, maintaining a team culture is very important for businesses. In this post, we look at some ways leaders can engage and build a great team culture with their global remote workers.
A hybrid workforce (one that includes a combination of remote and office-based work) is beneficial for businesses to reduce overcrowding which is why so many companies are focusing on building processes that allow employees to work from home. As the trend for remote working continues, it is important that companies develop a great culture where everyone feels connected, informed, and part of a team.
While technology can help with this, companies will need to develop a culture where both remote leaders and employees can stay fully connected and productive while working from home.
Below, we discuss some tips on how businesses can build a great team culture with their remote workers.
1. Regular communication
A common complaint from remote workers is that they can easily feel less engaged and connected to their colleagues. Therefore, constant communication is key when working remotely. Leaders need to ensure that their teams have access to the correct tools and can communicate through video calls, email, and instant messaging. In addition, setting up regular meetings allows managers to give company updates, keep projects on track, build collaboration, and limit feelings of isolation.
2. Encourage collaboration
Spontaneous conversation is important in the workplace. It is through these social interactions that key relationships are built. However, when people work remotely, there is less opportunity for casual conversation. Therefore, it is important for leaders to provide a safe place online, where teams can communicate freely. Here, workers can openly collaborate on business projects as well as discuss some gossip. This is also a great opportunity to learn about their colleague’s home life, by seeing pets or family members. These casual hangouts help remote workers feel part of a team and provide a sense of comfort and connection.
3. Health and wellbeing
Developing a culture of wellbeing for your remotes workers helps maintain employee productivity. Simple things like encouraging workers to take breaks away from the desk and maintain a regular work schedule help improve a person’s wellbeing. In addition, creating or providing access to a company wellness programme can help. Organising yoga or meditation online classes helps remote workers to engage with their colleagues as well as providing much-needed health benefits to help them cope during a stressful time.
4. Teambuilding
Pre COVID-19, remote workers would normally meet their colleagues on company days outs or trips to head office. For now, teambuilding exercises and events will take place mostly online. Luckily, there are many varied and interesting online group activities that a company can take part in. Virtual drinks, quizzes, and games are just some ways to help remote colleagues enjoy their time together and boost company morale.
Final Thoughts
Remote working brings many advantages, but feelings of isolation can hurt a worker’s job performance. When building a remote team culture, it is important for leaders to focus on clear communication, offer opportunities for team collaboration, and check-in with their worker’s well-being. Using these tips can help build a great global workforce where people working remotely can be happy, productive, and bring added value to the business.
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