Most people are under the notion that it was the pandemic that made remote work or work-from-home popular, but the truth is that the concept is older than we think. Today, many companies are using this method as it is beneficial for both employers and employees.
It is allowing firms to easily expand their workforce without spending money on infrastructure or other resources. Employees, on the other hand, are enjoying great flexibility along with work-life balance.
But, every practice comes with its own challenges and remote work is no exception. Therefore, it becomes mandatory for organizations to adopt the best practices for working remotely. But before delving deeper, let’s clear the basics first.
Understanding The Fundamentals of Remote Work
Right after the pandemic subsided, many companies started working in the office. That’s because most firms want their employees to work under proper and guided supervision. And even if we have the internet and several tools to connect remotely, the on-spot interactions are always more convincing.
Nevertheless, modern technology has made WFH more than an option for many enterprises.
It has enabled them to accomplish milestones the same way they did in a physical setting. The employees working remotely can deliver the same efficiency they did in their offices.
In fact, their productivity level has increased in various cases. As a result, more entrepreneurs are able to kickstart their ventures without acquiring expensive workplaces. Yet, achieving that feat is easier said than done.
Remote work gives you the best results only when it’s done with discipline, efficacy, and proper protocols. There are a few things that both managers and employers have to keep in mind. So let’s look at the best practices and principles of WFH to make the most of it.
Key Points to Follow for Remote Work
Mentioned below are some steps that many organizations have followed. They have helped large as well as small firms to achieve success and growth.
Clarity in Roles & Responsibilities
First things first, be clear about the roles and responsibilities of your employees. It is advised to share written circulars with clearly mentioned tasks to employees. So even if they forget or get confused, they can find it in their email.
Still, do not leave everything to passive communication. It’s better to assign a Point-of-Contact (POC) whom they can reach if they have questions. This would also make the management more accessible and transparent.
Maintain Deadlines With Flexibility
Flexibility is one of the biggest perks of WFH which you don’t want to rid your employees of. However, you also need to ensure the timely and proper completion of tasks. Thus, the best thing to do is plan and start things in advance. This way, you will have enough time to finish the job even when there are some unplanned leaves.
Ensure Data Security
No matter where you work, you can’t compromise with your precious data. Hence, it’s vital to follow some strict remote work security guidelines. If it’s not possible to assign a company laptop to employees, make sure they deal with data carefully.
Ask them to implement the security protocols on their devices and provide clear instructions on storage and sharing of information. Additionally, lay out some disciplinary actions in case of breach.
Promote Conversations & Team-Building
Office is more than just a workplace. It’s a place where people learn the ethics of team-playing and learn to work with each other.
Fortunately, you can establish the same bonhomie in work-from-home too. You can allow some casual chit chat that strengthens in-person relationships. Also, you can conduct some online activities or games that everyone can play together.
Set Boundaries & Stick to Them
Remember, working from home doesn’t mean 24/7 commitment to the job. Ensure that all your employees, especially the managers understand this. You must always encourage an environment in which people complete their work on time. There would be some flexibility for sure, but never let it turn into malpractice.
Use Effective Tools & Update Them
We are lucky to live in a digital age where remote communication has become the norm. So, we should also make the most of the current technology for our work.
Make sure that you’re using the most cutting-edge applications built for the WFH environment like a good PMS or Microsoft teams, etc. From communication to the sharing of all forms of data and collaboration, everything should be upgraded.
Give Feedback More Frequently
Don’t let remote work affect your coordination with employees. Talk to them from time to time about the status quo. Ask them about the challenges they’re facing and the solutions they’re seeking. You may not be able to resolve them quickly, but your involvement is crucial.
It would assure the employees that they aren’t left to their own devices. They will work with a better sense of security and reliability.
Timely Remuneration to Employees
Most companies provide remuneration for internet connection and some other facilities in the WFH environment. Usually, they provide laptops and other devices to their employees. Still, if it’s not possible, ensure that you pay them for accessories they buy specifically for work.
Encourage Holistic Well-being Too
You must encourage your employees to care for their physical and mental health. Make it easy for them to talk to you or someone about such issues. Make certain that one individual is not carrying the burden of others or vice versa. Induct timely breaks and other refreshing activities to ease up the pressure.
Build A Growth-Driven Structure
Remote workplaces can be as opportunistic as physical workplaces. You just need to build a growth-promoting structure and gauge performances more minutely. Monthly or quarterly rewards and recognitions also do a great job on that front.
Upshot
Companies practicing work-from-home must prioritize a healthy remote work culture. Only then, they can attain better results in the long term. They may have to be a little more proactive in their approach to make this system work. Once they do it, they’ll certainly find some great advantages.
They would understand the possibilities and limitations better and will work accordingly. With some effort and knowledge, any company offering remote work can succeed, especially when the follow the protocols.
