Remote workers have become the new normal. This new lifestyle is changing our business landscapes in many ways - some that we expected and others that we did not. 

As entrepreneurs manage this new aspect of doing business, those related conversations about remote workers can often end up being more about the day-to-day things, like efficiencies, how to make that video-conferencing meeting look a bit more professional or engaging, or when it’s just going to be smarter to email the team.

You may be finding that managing remote work requires you to find solutions to bigger challenges, though, such as employees who are suffering from the disconnection and isolation that can come with working from their home. This particular issue will very often affect motivation and morale, which can in turn negatively affect productivity. 

The modern worker is finding themselves working on a team composed of people from other cities, time zones, and even countries - people they only see on screens. Some feedback shows that remote employees often feel left out or that others aren’t happy with their work. While some of this is probably due to the lack of physical and visual cues we all need for encouragement and context, that sense of isolation is still influential and very, very real.  

One of the solutions to this issue is to be intentional about fostering culture for your remote workers. Working from home is probably going to continue to be a big part of the working world, so let’s talk about a few ways you can achieve success:

Share Success

You can do this simply by giving shout-outs and reiterating workers’ roles in specific and important projects, and you can really bring the point home by sharing the metrics that are positively affected by their efforts (such as ROI, profits, site, traffic, etc.). In-house contests (keep it friendly!) and awards can be fun to add to the mix.

Keep It Casual

Remote work is very dependent on video chats and conferences, and what’s missing here is the “water cooler” conversations that allow people to connect and catch up. Provide some digital space where your people can hold those informal conversations and find out what everyone is up to. 

Teamwork

As any boss knows, sometimes it’s really great for employees to collaborate and figure things out together rather than coming to you for guidance. Not only does that allow you some time to get stuff done, but it is a positive way for your team to get stronger together and build bonds that last. 

Coming Together

You may have a situation where some of your employees are onsite while others are working remotely. Be sure you don’t play favorites when it comes to engagement - make it happen for everyone, regardless of the way they work. Who says Happy Hour is a thing of the past? You can do this virtually, add some games and some snacks, and have some fun together. 

Meeting those business challenges makes you a stronger person and helps you to build the confidence you’ll need to meet your next challenge. Here at Nashville Office Interiors, we can help with all your home or office furniture and environment needs, whether that means outfitting a full-on professional office or a remote workspace. We’re your go-to for innovative workplace solutions.