UXL Blog

The work landscape has permanently changed, and it’s imperative for leaders to recognize that. Many people have found working from home to be convenient, time-saving, and less stressful than going into an office—even if this remote work occurs a couple days each week. What’s more, remote teams can provide a lot of benefits to an organization, from cost savings to increased productivity.

The problem, however, is in managing a remote team, especially for leaders who are used to managing teams in a traditional office environment. How do you keep your team’s attention? How should you conduct meetings and other communications? How can you keep everyone cohesive and happy?

Here are seven tips and best practices for leaders who manage teams that work remotely (either occasionally of full-time):

1. Set clear expectations

Setting clear expectations is crucial when managing a remote team. This includes expectations around communication, deadlines, and availability. Make sure to communicate the expectations clearly and consistently, so that everyone is on the same page. I’m a big advocate of clarity, and this becomes even more crucial when managing remotely.

2. Use the right tools

Using the right tools can help remote teams stay connected and productive. Some popular tools include video conferencing software, project management software, and instant messaging tools. Make sure to choose tools that are easy to use and accessible to everyone on the team.

3. Establish regular check-ins

Regular check-ins can help keep remote teams on track and ensure that everyone is on the same page. These check-ins can take the form of video calls, phone calls, or emails. Make sure to establish a regular schedule so everyone knows when to expect the check-ins. NOTE: Be careful not to over schedule, though! If a meeting really isn’t needed, don’t force it (or have a quicker than expected check-in).

4. Encourage collaboration

Collaboration is important for remote teams, just as it is for traditional teams. Encourage collaboration by creating opportunities for team members to work together, such as through shared projects or brainstorming sessions. Use tools that enable real-time collaboration, such as Google Docs or Slack.

5. Foster a positive team culture

Fostering a positive team culture is important for any team, but it can be especially challenging for remote teams. Make an effort to create a positive team culture by recognizing team members’ achievements, celebrating milestones, and promoting a supportive work environment.

6. Provide feedback and recognition

Providing feedback and recognition is important for remote teams, just as it is for traditional teams. Make sure to provide regular feedback and recognition to remote team members, even if it is just a quick email or message. This can help remote team members feel valued and connected to the team. Don’t underestimate the power of a thank you!

7. Establish healthy boundaries

Because our work and personal lives are overlapping more than ever, it is easy to overstep boundaries by emailing or texting after normal working hours. Your team should never be expected to respond to queries outside of the normal payday. To encourage healthy boundaries, don’t contact employees or send emails after hours (many email services allow you to schedule emails to send at a later time—opt to schedule emails during regular work hours). And if someone has scheduled a personal day, don’t interfere! It’s important to establish a firm barrier between our work and personal lives.

Managing remote teams can be challenging, but it is also rewarding. By following some simple tips and best practices, leaders can help their remote teams stay connected, productive, and engaged. Remote work is the future, and leaders need to adapt. You can still be just as effective, engaging, and communicative with a remote team, but you may need to adjust your approach. This could take extra work and strategy at first, but your efforts will be well worth it.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

Tags: better management remote teams, effectively manage remote team, lead remote work teams, leadership and work from home, Margaret Smith coaching, margaret smith leadership, remote team management practices