How can you manage library staff remotely?

1 Establish clear expectations

One of the first steps to managing library staff remotely is to set clear expectations for your team members, such as their work hours, tasks, goals, communication methods, and performance indicators. You can use a written document, a video call, or a shared platform to communicate these expectations and make sure everyone understands and agrees on them. This will help you avoid confusion, frustration, and micromanagement, and allow your staff to work autonomously and responsibly.

2 Communicate regularly and effectively

Communication is key to managing library staff remotely, as it helps you build trust, rapport, and collaboration among your team members. You should communicate regularly and effectively with your staff, using a variety of channels and formats, such as email, phone, chat, video, and social media. You should also balance the frequency and quality of your communication, avoiding both over-communication and under-communication. You should also encourage feedback, input, and recognition from your staff, and create a culture of openness and transparency.

3 Provide training and support

Managing library staff remotely also requires you to provide adequate training and support for your team members, especially if they are new to remote work or need to learn new skills or tools. You should identify the training and support needs of your staff, and offer them relevant resources, courses, webinars, or mentoring opportunities. You should also monitor their progress and challenges, and provide them with timely and constructive feedback and guidance. You should also acknowledge their achievements and celebrate their successes.

4 Foster collaboration and engagement

Another tip for managing library staff remotely is to foster collaboration and engagement among your team members, as this can enhance their productivity, creativity, and morale. You can use online tools and platforms that facilitate teamwork, such as project management software, document sharing systems, or collaborative brainstorming tools. You can also create opportunities for social interaction and bonding, such as virtual coffee breaks, games, quizzes, or book clubs. You can also involve your staff in decision making and problem solving, and value their contributions and ideas.

5 Adapt to changing needs and situations

Managing library staff remotely also demands that you adapt to changing needs and situations, as remote work can present unexpected challenges and opportunities. You should be flexible and responsive to the needs and preferences of your staff, such as their work styles, schedules, or personal circumstances. You should also be open and willing to learn from your experience and feedback, and adjust your strategies and practices accordingly. You should also embrace innovation and experimentation, and try new ways of working and delivering services.

6 Take care of yourself and your staff

Finally, managing library staff remotely also means that you take care of yourself and your staff, as remote work can pose risks to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. You should promote a healthy and balanced work-life integration, and respect your staff's boundaries and availability. You should also encourage your staff to take breaks, exercise, and practice self-care. You should also check in with your staff regularly, and offer them support, empathy, and compassion. You should also model positive and resilient behavior, and inspire your staff to do the same.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?