Managing Employees Working From Home

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the world to switch to virtual working conditions overnight. While the pandemic is under control, employees seem to function well virtually in the new work culture. But responsibilities for work managers and HRs have only become more complex since dealing with in-office culture is not the same as a work-from-home situation.

Interdot practices a hybrid work environment, carefully balancing working from home with an interactive work-from-home setup; which ensures that employees are still able to feel part of the company while being given the space to optimise work-time by working from home. These 7 tips have helped us to navigate our way in this new setup.

#1 Set the Decorum: The SOP of Work Culture

WFH is not an in-office setup since with added convenience of personal comfort comes unaccounted distraction. Whether you are trying to manage the new intern or a seasoned employee, attempt to convey the work rules to all the employees.?Once the work policy and decorum during working hours are clear, employees will include compromises to enhance productivity and reduce distractions. Remember, an effective manager extracts maximum accountability from the employees.

#2 Trust and Communication: Listen to Speak

For effective employee management, ensure clear communication with the employees. Managing deadlines or troubleshooting technical issues, resource management, or meeting employee demands, it's a long list.?Attempt to know WFH employees (without violating privacy) and always hear them to make the most out of their demands. As an HR, protect the organization's regards without affecting the interests of the employees.?

#3 Planning and Execution: Flexible and Organized

Conducting work meetings or hustling to meet an effective deadline, it's always up to managers for execution. Ensure a flexible work schedule to ensure maximum productivity. Make the most of the virtual work environment and plan a routine without burning the night lamp.?Brief and frequent work meets have enhanced employee communication while raising output and productivity. Ensure clear project briefs using innovative work tools to help the employees recognize the client's demands without complicating things later.

#4 Value Employees: Connect With Them

In-office work meant plenty of opportunities to connect with people working all over the floor. In the virtual WFH, we recommend managers put in the extra effort. Try knowing each employee at a work level, which provides them with confidence, while developing acquaintances also means earning their trust.?Conduct team meetings outside work or manage time during virtual work communication to catch up with employees. Tracking them provides insights into their performance, which is essential for the organization and the workforce.?

#5 Employee First Policy: Prioritise Their Welfare

Competent managers always appreciate their employees in keeping the company ahead of the competition. Concentrate on the employee's well-being. Address their shortcomings while recognizing their success. Begin with the simple habit of reaching out because sincere attempts best solve issues.?Prioritize their overall well-being and address their sudden dismay at work. Whether health issues or being stuck with sudden inconveniences, attend to their woes with empathy. Remember, work-from-home doesn't take away their additional responsibility at home, which now they need to make provision for while working in the stipulated hours.?

#6 Practice Gratitude: Giving Is Receiving

Not popularly aligned with the competitive atmosphere in the corporate sector, never hesitate to become an exceptional manager. Shower the employees with a meaningful gesture reminding them of individual value at the organization.?Besides, remembering their significant days also helps reduce the absence of personal touch. Arranging a cozy virtual meeting on their birthdays or smothering them with collective efforts helps maintain a tight-knit workforce. Celebrating someone's promotion or gathering for a surreal farewell means a lot for employees across all positions.?

#7 the Good Shepherd: Eyeing the Flock

Spread the word of discipline and integrity even though the work mode is virtual. Track WFH employees using logistic tools to stay updated with their performance parameters. Whether not putting adequate work hours or indulging in unethical activities, missing deadlines frequently, or providing substandard work quality, hold your employee accountable. Every work environment enhances when following a decorum.

Never forget to add subtle colors to the dullness of virtual office life, but not to the cost of chaos. Strive to be a cordial manager who puts the extra mile for smooth sailing at work while keeping the team at arm's length.?