With multiple states ordering people to stay home during the COVID-19 outbreak, your business may have closed its physical doors. Welcome to the remote life! Now, is your workforce prepared? Here are some basic questions to consider.
Do Your People Have the Necessary Tools?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2018, only 24 percent of U.S. employees did some or all their work at home. That means most workers aren’t ready for remote life. Before you expect your team to switch over to a new system, be sure everyone has the tools they need. This may include a reliable internet connection with adequate security and privacy protocols, a computer, a phone, a printer, office supplies, access to software or cloud-based tools and/or a webcam. Depending on the situation, your company may completely cover or assist with the cost of these items. For instance, you may purchase work computers for everyone while only covering a percentage of their home internet bills.
Will Your Employees Take Remote Work Seriously?
Many managers dread the idea of telecommuting. They worry workers will sleep late, binge watch TV and then expect a paycheck for doing subpar work or no work at all. Although this could happen, you also need to trust your hiring processes. Hopefully, the people you invited to join your team are both motivated and trustworthy. Assume they will rise to the occasion. However, even so, you’ll want to establish some boundaries to keep everyone on the same page. Consider designating preferred working hours, creating check-in rules (how often and with whom) and setting and tracking goals and deadlines. Of course, despite everyone’s best efforts, some of your employees may struggle with the lack of workplace structure. Probably, your best bet is to deal with these situations on an individual basis.
Can You Maintain Your Culture with a Scattered Team?
Certainly, maintaining your company’s culture will be a challenge when your people aren’t in the same spot, but it IS possible. Zapier, a global remote company with 250 employees, believes the right communication tools are a key to their success. They recommend finding day-to-day platforms to match your organization’s personality. For example, if you’re looking for a fun, laid-back environment, tools like Slack can create the same vibe. Whereas, Google Drive tends to be more traditional. In addition, your organization should recognize remote work tends to be more business-focused. “Here are the files. Thanks!” As a result, it’s easy to lose office camaraderie. Therefore, look for ways to add in some virtual fun such as chit-chatting before a video conference and/or sharing jokes online.
Are You Looking for Talented Candidates Who Can Work Remotely?
If your organization is looking for extra assistance to get through the Coronavirus pandemic, BOS Staffing can help you find the people you need. Our recruiters place IT professionals, light industrial workers and medical staff in Atlanta, Georgia and beyond. Request an employee today!
