2020 was a year of adaptation for businesses across the globe. As more and more people set up shop in their dining room at home, managers were tasked with the mammoth challenge of ensuring staff still worked productively, even when out of the standard office setting.
Now, businesses are considering a permanent switch to remote working, which means making sure productivity doesn’t drop is crucial.
So how can it be done?
Identify the best technology
While allowing your staff to take their laptops home was a temporary solution for the pandemic, it’s a good idea to research the best technologies that can help staff stay productive. Cloud-based computing, for example, is a great way to ensure staff has all the documents they need and access to programs and systems they require. In addition, managed print services will keep any paperwork that needs to be printed organized and printed to a high quality while also providing servicing for printers and other technology.
By investing in the highest tech today, you’ll be able to focus more on work in the future, rather than having to constantly replace software and devices.
Don’t just talk about business
For some staff, the commute to work would have been an enjoyable escape from home-life stresses. For others, their team members may be the only people they usually speak to in a day. It’s important to remember that without the constant flurry of people around the office to chit chat with, many employees could suffer from isolation from being home alone all the time.
That’s why when checking in with staff; it’s important to offer emotional support and not just stay on the topic of business. Staff should be encouraged to take things at their own pace (while still working hard) and be comfortable reaching out when they’re feeling a little under the weather.
By encouraging an open and honest remote workplace, staff will feel comfortable and supported, which will ultimately boost productivity.
Don’t neglect team building
Just because the staff is now scattered doesn’t mean they’re no longer a team. Although a little harder, remote workplaces should still put effort into team building activities, whether that’s getting the team together in person from time to time or utilizing video calling to bring everyone together for virtual fun.
And, as the dynamic between peers and managers is different, implementing a platform on which staff can chat about non-work-related topics like hobbies, personal things, or even complaining about the manager together will help create a feeling of connectivity and closeness between peers.
Help staff create a dedicated work area
While some employees might already have a home office, others will be struggling to manage their work within their current home setup. Therefore, it’s always good to recommend staff create a designated work area so that they have the space to focus on the task.
Some areas of productivity at home are out of your hands, but by providing staff support and positivity every step of the way, can go a long way.
