Insight

Out of sight, out of mind? Supporting your team with remote working

Managing and supporting remote working teams presents different challenges at the best of times - but now the mix of uncertainty, anxiety and change can create additional pressures for employers and employees alike. Looking after your team’s wellbeing has never been more crucial, but how do you keeping them focused, agile and productive? We have a few suggestions that may help.

Communication

Regular team video or conference calls will keep everyone on the same page and clear about what they should be doing. It will also provide a sense of community.

Scheduled 1-2-1 meetings with your team members to assess how well they’re coping working from home and if there’s any additional support they need. Making time in these calls for social chat as well as discussing work issues is really important.

Be mindful of 'screen overload' and remember that a phone call can often be as good, and sometimes better, than a video call.

Flexibility

Many people aren’t used to working from home and will find it hard to keep focused and productive, especially given additional distractions of home life such as home schooling. Check in with your team to see if their usual working patterns are still realistic, or whether they may need time for other responsibilities during the day or evening. They may even prefer to work in the evenings.

Providing a clear and regular work schedule will not only help them structure their days, but will also provide a sense of achievement as they work through it. It’s a human trait to struggle with ambiguity, especially in times of stress.

Motivation

It has never been more important to lead, encourage and motivate your team.

Upholding the values of a supportive and caring culture will encourage team members to do the same; identify their individual strengths and celebrate team and organisation successes.

Just for Fun

Sharing ideas across the team in a more informal format, e.g. a virtual 'pub quiz' is a great way to engage, allowing team members to share how they’re keeping themselves upbeat, how they structure their days, if they’re learning something new or want to talk about fun activities they’re doing with their children. Focus on social engagement, wellbeing and a much-needed sense of fun.

Supporting the wellbeing and mental health of your team is always the right thing to do. If you go the extra mile now, you are more likely to have a motivated, positive and committed team that is able to embrace change more readily and adapt to the new way of working.

Share this page: