5 Tips to Effectively Manage a Remote Team

With more than 3.7 million employees working from home at least half the time, telecommuting is more popular than ever. 

There is no doubt that remote work is on the rise, particularly in the tech industry. And while this is an ideal scenario for employees, it can leave managers feeling like they have no control over their team.     

To help you overcome some of the challenges of managing your remote workforce, we’ve provided you with five tips to ensure you and your employees are set up for success:  

1. Encourage Transparency

As a manager, lead by example and be transparent with your team. This includes getting them involved in the company beyond their everyday tasks. Share company updates and initiatives and get your team’s feedback on what’s going well and what needs to be reevaluated.  

2. Set Clear Expectations

Everyone works a little bit differently, but having clear expectations set for your team will help them stay focused on a common goal. For example, set up work-from-home guidelines that include responding to emails within a certain amount of time, and outline what communication styles are appropriate for different situations.  

3. Have a Strategy for Communication

Managing a successful remote team begins with a strategy for communication. This includes scheduling weekly one-on-ones, team video calls, and other formal check-ins. Having a daily or weekly written work plan can also help employees stay focused and understand what projects are most urgent.  

4. Foster a Sense of Community

Building relationships with your team members is important and is key to developing engaged remote employees. This can happen by simply getting to know each other, celebrating special days such as birthdays, and recognizing individual accomplishments.  

5. Utilize Technology

Technology can be your greatest asset when it comes to managing your remote workforce. Solutions like Paylocity’s performance journaling and peer recognition help you keep your finger on the pulse of your remote employees by providing timely and meaningful feedback anywhere, anytime.

Discover more about Paylocity’s talent management tools here.