Rethinking Remote Work ... a New Trendicators Report
The COVID-19 crisis has shaken up every aspect of our daily lives, from how we shop to how and where we work. The lingering pandemic has dramatically affected corporate cultures, relationships and the economy. As restrictions in some states begin to ease, many companies continue to encourage their employees to work remotely for their safety. 64% of U.S. salaried employees are now working from home – that’s almost double the number working remotely pre-COVID-19. More than ever, it’s important to reevaluate the idea of remote work and how it’s certain to be a pivotal component of corporate culture post-pandemic. A new Trendicators report, Rethinking Remote Work, examines the challenges and opportunities that exist in remote work and how companies can better support and recognize their employees.
Transitioning from an office environment to remote work comes with several challenges that could be detrimental to an employee’s productivity. The lack of an office setting means an employee loses a desk, a cubicle or other dedicated workspace. It can become frustrating and inefficient when they must find or create a work area in their own home. It’s also no surprise that working from home invites more distractions for remote employees, from barking dogs to a child who requires care. Having to work remotely means most of the workday is spent in front of the computer screen, leading to screen fatigue and a decreased attention span. The loss of an office setting also means there is a lack of face-to-face meetings and interactions for employees. Many try to compensate by meeting virtually on a regular basis, but this form of communication can fail to achieve efficient collaboration. To ensure remote work is efficient and optimized for remote employees, these challenges must be addressed to improve performance.
What can be done to address obstacles that affect the work of remote employees?
Begin with Manager. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the relationships between managers and their direct reports have been tested. The role of the manager must adapt to this new situation so that their skill sets become suitable for effectively managing remote employees. In a time when employees cannot be together in the office, active listening skills are crucial when interacting in virtual settings. The lack of on-site communication can prove difficult and overwhelming for many employees. It’s never been more important for a manager to be an employee enabler, one who offers their help during one-on-one touch-base sessions. Working remotely means that managers cannot have typical oversight as to how their employees get their jobs done. Therefore, it’s critical to take note of the results and outcomes rather than the processes because each employee can work differently especially in their new environments. These solutions can bridge the distance between managers and their employees.
Remember to Recognize. We’re living through a pandemic and mental health is undoubtedly at the top of the list of priorities. Employees are facing a variety of concerns, from job security and health to other personal obligations. Strengthening social connections in the workplace, even remotely, can be beneficial for employees and their mental health. Companies should emphasize recognition – peer-to-peer eCards, weekly meetings with team-building exercises, and going the extra mile for employee milestones. Technology has created an endless number of opportunities for boosting engagement and relationships even when employees can’t be together in a shared space.
Seek Fresh Information. With remote work becoming our new normal, reevaluating current standards is essential to success in corporate cultures. The Trendicators report offers valuable insights on the challenges of remote employees and what can be done to optimize their experiences and efficiency. Corporate leadership is going to play a huge role in determining an employee’s productivity and mental wellbeing for the foreseeable future, so rethinking remote work is imperative.
Read the full report here.