I have been writing about Ingagement Strategies in my recent articles here on C-Suite. I hope you have been enjoying and benefiting from them.
Today I would like to continue that series by addressing a question about Ingagement that might have been on your mind . . .
How can a leader keep remote workers ingaged?
This is a real problem, especially in the days since the Pandemic, when more and more employees are working from their homes. Even though the team you are leading might be returning to work today, chances are that some of the people you lead are still working from their homes, or even from other parts of the country. For advice on managing this new reality, I encourage you to explore my new book Ingaging Leadership: The Ultimate Edition.
How can you keep them involved, and as productive as the in-house workers you supervise?
Managing remote teams presents unique challenges that require innovative solutions to keep everyone connected, motivated, and productive.
Key Challenges
- Communication Barriers: Remote work can hinder effective communication, leading to misunderstandings and reduced collaboration.
- Isolation: Remote employees may feel isolated and disconnected from their colleagues, impacting their morale and productivity.
- Collaboration: Facilitating collaboration can be more challenging with remote teams, as the lack of physical presence can make teamwork less intuitive.
Practical Tips
- Leverage Technology: Utilize digital tools to facilitate communication and collaboration. Platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom can help bridge the gap, making it easier for team members to stay in touch and work together effectively.
- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins to stay connected with remote employees. These can be one-on-one meetings or team huddles, providing opportunities to discuss progress, address concerns, and offer support.
- Virtual Team Building: Organize virtual team-building activities to foster a sense of community. These activities can range from online games and quizzes to virtual coffee breaks and team challenges, helping to build relationships and boost team morale.
By addressing these challenges and implementing practical strategies, leaders can create a more engaged and cohesive remote team. In summary, Ingaging Leadership: The Ultimate Edition offers valuable guidance for managing remote teams. By leveraging technology, maintaining regular communication, and fostering a sense of community, leaders can overcome the challenges of remote work and create a thriving, engaged team.
Currently, a consultant to some of the largest franchise systems in North America. A franchise industry leader, widely published, keynote speaker, member of the New England Franchise Association Board, and Co-chair of the International Franchise Associations Knowledge Share Task Force.|A dynamic, innovative, thoughtful and inspiring leader with 30 years of experience in franchising, distributed networks and cooperatives. Successful history of: (i) turning around a $700 million distressed franchise system into a $2.0 billion revenue business in four years, (ii) reviving and re-energizing a $3.5 billion revenue franchisor and (iii) founding three franchise systems. Experienced corporate board member.
- Developing Ingagement Strategies for Remote Teams - February 10, 2025
- The Future of Leadership: Embracing Ingagement - February 9, 2025
- Personal Stories of Ingagement at Work - February 8, 2025