MANAGING REMOTE WORK DURING COVID-19
With the global spread of the coronavirus pandemic, workers across industries have been forced to work from home where possible. Companies such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and many others around the world have all initiated mandatory work-from-home policies. While many other companies are unable to allow for remote work, which has led to mass layoffs, remote work can be both a blessing and a curse for those who can do it.
Meanwhile the World Health Organization has indicated that we should expect this work situation to become the “new normal” for the foreseeable future. But working from home can be a major transition for people who have always worked in an office and it may require an adjustment period. “Some employees in the Furniture Industry are working from home for the very first time, “they have to figure out how to work effectively in an environment that may be distracting, isolating and disruptive to productivity.”
Communication is key and that means leveraging technology like Skype and Zoom to establish day-to-day communication and keep people feeling connected and focused on their jobs. Your employees are bound to have many concerns about the impact not only to their workday, but also about the longer-term implications for the economy and their jobs. Communicate with them often about the impacts of the pandemic to your business and encourage employees to express their concerns and questions. For more information on virtual interviews, click here to read our complete guide!
EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATION PLANNING
We recommend setting up an employee Communication Platform. Many experts believe that weekly or bi-weekly touch bases just to keep everyone informed and up to date. It also provides a platform to answer questions and keep rumors from circulating. Involve HR on the call along with key Executives of the company. This is a great way to show you care.
Offering clear guidelines for people who are new to working from home. “Your team needs to know exactly what is expected of them,” “Not being crystal clear about expectations can lead to problems that can cause major disruptions in your team’s workflow and performance. Clarify what tools your team will use, how you will communicate, what hours everyone is expected to work and when projects will be completed. Put the plan in writing so that everyone understands it and knows what is expected of them.”
“It’s also important to remind them to treat remote work the same way as if they were working from their office,”they should be making the effort to create a dedicated workspace - and resisting the temptation to lounge around in pajamas all day.”
CREATE A STRUCTURED DAY
Get dressed - that’s right, treat every day as an office day. You don’t have to dress upscale, however, we recommend business casual clothing every day. You’ll feel better and be prepared for that impromptu Zoom meeting with your boss, client or peer.
Create a dedicated space so that you can close yourself away from distractions.
Keep regular hours - that’s right, as mentioned earlier, treat your remote work schedule the same way as if you were working from your office.
Tag team with your partner whether you have children or if you have furry kid family members at home. Outlining clear roles and responsibilities will make you and your spouse more productive.
Have a chalkboard to create a daily list timelining any scheduled distractions.
Take regular breaks by scheduling them - it’s more important than ever during this changing and rather dramatic time period.
Most Important! Have fun - be productive, get caught up earlier and you’ll be sure to impress your teammates, boss and company.
A REMINDER TO BOSSES REGARDING DIRECT REPORTS
Keep in mind, too, that when working remotely, employees don’t always receive the same level of feedback on their work as they would in the office. “Make sure to provide consistent feedback, “even something as simple as an email that shows you’re aware of what they’re accomplishing. Ask how they are adjusting, how they are feeling and if they are struggling with anything.”
Working from home has tremendous advantages, in fact, many companies have found that as a whole a balanced approach to this model has actually improved productivity in many companies.
The coronavirus has dramatically changed the way many people in the U.S. and abroad are working. It’s critically important that during these uncertain times your employees feel valued and that their well-being matters. That’s powerful motivation for them to perform well and do their part to keep your business on track.
Bill O’Malley is President of Connector Team Recruiting a firm headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia specializing in the Furniture | Appliance and Sleep verticals. Connector Team is an affiliate office of MRINETWORK, Philadelphia, PA. Connector Team is a full service Search Firm offering permanent placement recruiting and contract staffing solutions.
Feel free to contact Bill at bill@connectorteamrecruiting.com.
Reference to: MRI Learning and Talent Development - STAR