Tips for Keeping Remote Teams Engaged
Working remotely has become increasingly common over the past few years. While remote work provides many benefits like flexibility and work-life balance, it also comes with some unique challenges. One major hurdle is keeping remote team members engaged and connected. Here are some tips to boost engagement for remote teams.
Promote Open Communication
Communication is key for any team, but even more so for remote workers. It's important to promote channels such as an employee communication platform from Netpresenter and make it easy for employees to connect with colleagues and managers. Set up instant messaging platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams so employees can chat in real-time. Encourage team members to turn cameras on during virtual meetings so people can see facial expressions and body language. Consider organizing regular virtual watercooler meetings purely for socializing and bonding. The more remote workers communicate, the more engaged they'll be.
Provide Opportunities for Collaboration
Collaboration builds connection. Look for ways that remote team members can collaborate on projects and assignments. Use collaboration tools like Google Docs and Trello to allow for real-time cooperation and teamwork. Assign people to work in small groups or pairs to complete tasks together. Collaboration requires communication so it naturally boosts interaction and engagement among remote teams.
Recognize and Appreciate Contributions
It's easy for remote workers to feel isolated and like their work goes unnoticed. That's why it's incredibly important for managers to recognize people's contributions and show appreciation. Send regular kudos and shoutouts via email or instant message when people do great work. Highlight employee accomplishments and wins during virtual meetings or in a digital newsletter. Expressing gratitude and acknowledging people's hard work makes them feel valued as part of the team.
Empower and Trust Your Team
The more autonomy and trust you give your remote team, the more engaged they will be in their work. Provide the flexibility they need to do their best work when and where they want. Don't micromanage. Show you have faith in their skills and judgement by empowering them with responsibilities and leadership opportunities. People feel motivated when trusted to own their projects and workflow. Empowerment also boosts job satisfaction and commitment to the team.
Facilitate Fun Bonding Experiences
Don’t underestimate the value of fun! Build in opportunities for remote teams to bond and unwind together. Arrange a virtual pizza party or host trivia nights over video chat. Send everyone a recipe and ingredients to make the same meal “together.” Schedule performances where team members can showcase their hidden talents. Making time for pure enjoyment and laughter forges meaningful connections.
Establish Mentorship Programs
Pair up remote workers in mentor-mentee relationships. This allows for 1:1 coaching and support beyond just work obligations. Mentors can provide guidance, inspiration and accountability. Mentees gain a trusted advisor for anything from career growth to work-life balance. This nurtures personal relationships and interdependence across the team.
Keeping distributed teams engaged takes effort, but it pays off through stronger morale, productivity and results. Utilizing tools that facilitate frequent communication and collaboration is key. Promoting openness, providing recognition and building personal connections also unite remote workers. With deliberate intention to interact, collaborate and have fun, you can keep a thriving remote team.
