More tips for Managing Offsite and Teleworking Employees

Last week we talked about managing team members who are working remotely. In today’s blog we are going to talk a bit more about strategies for improving communication and productivity from your off site staff.

As a manager there are a few things that so make dealing with offsite and teleworking employees that are slightly more difficult. For instance, when you have off site employees you have to be more diligent about communicating and interacting with your employees. Instead of waiting to run into them at the water cooler you must go out of your way to touch base and communicate clearly with your remote employees

When you do communicate with your off site employees it is important to be organized and discuss the important items that need to be dealt with. Here are some pointers to make this easier.

Communicating effectively with your off site or remote employees

1. Establish goals

First things first, in order to make the most out of the time you have talking to your off site employee begin the conversation by defining some clear goals for the conversation.

This will help you stay on track and make sure you get to the most important items during the conversation.

2.  Plan for the next conversation

Once you have touched on your goals for the conversation also make sure that you establish your expectations for the next conversation. Also schedule the future conversation so that your remote employee has a clear deadline.

3. Let your employee know how they can reach you if they need you

Before you conclude your conversation make sure that you also let your employee know when you will be available if you are needed for questions or clarification. This helps to let your employee feel more comfortable reaching out to you if they need assistance before your next scheduled conversation.

4. Reinforce the positive

Because remote employees often feel out of the loop make an effort to reinforce the positive and thank them for their role in the team!

5. Don’t leave them out

Lastly make an extra effort to include remote employees in workplace meetings, social events and communications. If you want your off site employees to give their all. Make sure that you include them in the day to day operations of the business. 

When you are dealing with employees who are not located in the same building as the rest of your team it can be easy to forget or neglect that relationship. As a manager it is important to go the extra mile when communicating with your telecommuters so that they feel as if they are part of the bigger picture. This will help you to create a stronger and more productive working environment. 

-Bill

Proven Training Solutions provides training for managing virtual and remote employees in DC area including Washington, Virginia and Arlington.