As remote working becomes more popular, project managers face new challenges in building and managing remote teams. Major challenges that managers usually face include communication gaps, creating and maintaining schedules, onboarding new members—especially new recruits—and ensuring that the team’s overall functioning is streamlined and organized. Fortunately, there are a few simple tips that managers can effectively incorporate to build a remote team of members for business and even manage it successfully.
Assemble the right people
One of the most important tips for managers creating a remote team is to select the right set of people from the office. Based on the project at hand, managers should seek team members with specific skills and levels of experience. Choosing employees who have successfully completed similar projects in the past can be particularly beneficial.
Additionally, managers must consider shortlisting individuals who demonstrate a strong work ethic and have proven their work efficiently without supervision. This quality is one of the most essential factors to consider when forming a team that will operate remotely, with no direct supervision.
Moreover, business heads and managers must ensure that the team members possess good communication skills to minimize any potential gaps while working remotely.
Put in additional effort to support new employees
Building a virtual team for business growth may require managers to hire and onboard new employees. But when treading down that path, recruiters and team leaders must be prepared to put in extra effort. New employees may require some time to adjust and settle into the work environment and adapt to the company culture. If it is their first time working remotely, they may especially require assistance with the setup.
In the initial days, managers and fellow colleagues should be ready to provide additional support to help the new recruits understand the project brief and the tools used by the company.
Consider the schedule and structure
For setting up a remote team effectively, managers need to determine and establish an appropriate schedule and work structure for their team members. Given that employees may be located in different time zones, it is important for managers to set a clear framework that includes fixed clock-in and clock-out times. Even if flexible working hours are permitted for all employees, managers must set clear expectations regarding communication and work availability.
Avoid micromanaging
With teams and employees working remotely and not being in sight, managers might feel compelled to micromanage. However, to effectively and efficiently manage a remote team, it is in their best interest to avoid nitpicking on their team members without a valid reason. According to a popular survey, more than 70% of employees find that micromanagement causes a significant hindrance to their productivity and job performance.
So, one of the top tips for managing a remote business team is to prioritize the quality of employees’ work and deliverables rather than constantly monitoring their work activities. For instance, one can ask for regular reports or updates on projects to ensure that the work is completed within the scheduled date/time.
Use tools for effective collaboration
Remote work has become more efficient and streamlined thanks to the modern technology. Numerous software tools and applications now assist project managers and employees in working remotely.
Project managers, in particular, can benefit from implementing cloud-based file-sharing tools that seamlessly allow employees to collaborate and share work reports remotely. Additionally, incorporating AI-powered project management apps, such as Monday, ClickUp, and Asana, can be beneficial in multiple ways. These applications simplify project management by automating routine tasks, setting deadlines, tracking progress, and assigning duties.
Additionally, video conferencing apps are incredibly valuable for building and managing remote teams. Managers might also consider using video conferencing tools that include an in-built whiteboard feature, which facilitates quick brainstorming sessions and discussions among remote teams. Overall, these collaboration tools enhance workflow efficiency for remote teams.
Celebrate milestones
One of the most effective strategies for building and managing remote teams is to celebrate all the milestones—be it big or small. This includes not only team achievements but also individual accomplishments. Such celebrations boost employee morale and encourage the team to work more efficiently towards the goals of the company. Managers and team leaders can also consider investing in rewards and recognition activities for the team, such as sending them gifts or treats upon successful completion of projects or planning a corporate event to recognize the efforts of the team.
Invest in required tools
To work remotely, employees need a functioning PC or a laptop and a stable internet connection, among other essentials. However, not all employees can afford to purchase these tools or set up a home office on their own. This is why if the company’s budget allows, business leaders and managers should consider investing in these necessary tools for their employees. The company can either lend laptops owned by the organization for the duration of their work term or, if possible, purchase a separate device for them. For employees who may not be able to receive the devices, companies can consider allowing them to purchase their own devices and offering a reimbursement.
Additionally, reimbursing the employees to set up a new internet connection could also be beneficial for both the employees and the organization.