The workplace as we know it is rapidly changing during the current global pandemic and employers are considering the potential of working from home for the foreseeable. Whilst working remotely can offer a number of benefits to both businesses and their teams, it can also present challenges. To be successful, you must communicate regularly with your team and carry out collaborative work that creates trust and builds relationships. So how can employers motivate employees working from home?
Whether working from home is temporary due to the pandemic, for employees who need a flexible schedule, or just to cut the cost of business overheads, we have put together some best practices to help you keep your team motivated and proactive.
Stay connected with your team
Collaboration is essential if you want your team to feel connected and motivated when working on a joint project. Ensure everyone has the correct equipment needed in order to take part in regular conference calls and arrange one-to-ones to check in on individuals and find out if they need any extra support. Communication is key if you want your employees to feel involved and be responsive.
Focus on your employees’ accomplishments
Working from home can be difficult for some, so it’s important to praise your employees and set achievable goals that they can accomplish. Highlighting success and contributions will make your team feel appreciated and needed even at a distance, resulting in increased levels of motivation and productivity.
Trust your team
Once you’ve set goals and expectations, the best thing to do is get out of the way. Make sure your team feel comfortable enough to reach out if they need help or advice, but also trust them to get on with the task at hand and produce results. Micromanaging every hour of someone’s day is the least effective way to achieve success.
Continue professional development
Even when your team are working remotely, you should still provide training opportunities and the opportunity to develop and progress within their role. If employees don’t feel like they’re equipped with the right skills or have little support, they may become overwhelmed. As an employer you should encourage professional development to increase motivation and show each individual they are valuable to the business.
Show compassion and be flexible
Finally, it’s crucial for employers to appreciate this new normal may be difficult for some employees. Recognising the needs of your team and showing compassion to their unique environment is important if you want them to feel motivated to work well within the business. By providing consistent support, you will keep your workforce engaged and dedicated to delivering the best work they can, wherever their work setup may be.
If you would like more advice on managing your workforce during these uncertain times, our HR team are on hand to assist you. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch
