Telecommunication teams are working remotely more than ever before. This creates new challenges and requires new tech, but these 6 tips will help you manage remote telecom workers.
Key Takeaways- Make the right investments
- Improve collaboration and communication
- Track productivity
- Be clear about expectations
- Know when to celebrate
- Take a more flexible approach
1. Make the right investments
Managing a remote team means you will need to invest in new technologies. Digital transformation was already a top priority for many companies, and now that transformation is being accelerated. Key components to invest in include:- Cloud-based tools and applications for everything from collaboration and CRM to document creation and storage.
- Equipment to help your remote workers succeed, including mobile devices, headsets, and other office accessories that will make their jobs easier.
- Support and troubleshooting tools, including the ability to add new positions to help remote workers manage challenges like home Wi-Fi and computer problems.
2. Improve collaboration and communication
Other tools and technologies to invest in are communication and collaboration platforms. There are now many options for video conferencing, including Zoom and Google Meet, but also consider incorporating an instant chat solution, like Slack or Skype for Business, so that teams can communicate with one another in real-time. These tools ensure that employees stay connected. Managers can use them frequently throughout the day to answer questions, have regular check-ins, and provide instant guidance for issues that arise. Collaboration is more important than ever so workers still feel like they’re part of a team.3. Track productivity
Especially at the beginning of the pandemic, many companies feared that remote workers wouldn’t be as productive. While some companies have actually increased efficiency, others have struggled to maintain the same level of productivity as in the office. Online tools can help you track each employee’s productivity throughout the day, making sure that they are actually working and hitting their targets. But drops in productivity may also be caused by workers feeling isolated or unsupported by their managers. The solution here is to make sure that workers have check-ins and meetings built into their workdays so they stay on track and maintain a normal work schedule.4. Be clear about expectations
It’s also crucial to establish what the specific expectations are for remote work, instead of assuming that employees will know on their own. Be clear about information like:- Hours they are expected to be logged on
- How time off will be handled
- How often they should take breaks (encourage them to do this regularly throughout the day)
- Which modes of communication should be used for what purpose
- When managers will be available during the day if they are needed