How to engage and connect with your remote workforce in 2021

The ongoing pandemic is altogether redefining the way teams communicate and work. While some companies offer remote working to provide a more flexible lifestyle for their employees, it is now becoming the norm for most businesses and is expected by potential recruits. 

With days being particularly hectic and challenging, and now for many with the added pressure of homeschooling, we have put together our top four best practices to help your employees feel connected and engaged, especially in such uncertain times. 

Give employees a sense of belonging

Studies show that one of the crucial factors that separates successful companies from the rest, is giving employees a sense of belonging. 

‘A sense of belonging at the office will be increasingly prized by employees, and a crucial conditional for fostering innovation’. 

Check-in regularly and be proactive

 Managers that lead remote teams need to make themselves available. It's common for employees to choose not to raise a problem themselves due to fears around the outcome. Asking questions such as ‘How can I help you feel more connected?’ or ‘Is there anything I can do to help you in your role?’ can help start the conversation. 

Ensure relevant information is at their fingertips

Employees want to be kept up to date with the latest news and developments within the business, whether related to Covid-19 or not. Ensure you communicate with your workforce via email, video, or internal platform for ease of access. 

Set clear, yet flexible, expectations

 Employees’ day-to-day routines are very different. Interrupted by childcare, supporting vulnerable family members and hearing constant uncertainty on the news will cause disruption. Be transparent with employees about work expectations and performance but recognise that goals may be met outside of standard working hours. 

Although this is not the start to 2021 we had all hoped for, there is comfort in knowing that we are all in this together. Hope is on the horizon, and we will continue to become stronger and more resilient.