Remote work has gone from being a niche idea to something more and more companies are starting to experiment with, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to implement. 

Here are five tips to help you help your employees adapt their work styles and habits to remote work as easily and comfortably as possible so they can become as productive in this new mode as they were in the traditional office setting.

Now, let’s get started.

1) Set Clear Expectations

The first step is setting clear expectations. Know what you're expecting from your employees and establish a clear set of guidelines for how communication will work. Employees who are accustomed to working in the office may need some time to get used to an entirely remote work environment, but they must know exactly what their role entails. 

To do this, have them read over their job description and make sure that both parties understand what each expects from one another. For example, if the employee needs guidance or feedback on any projects that he/she might be assigned, let him/her know in advance so there aren't any surprises.

2) Invest In Communication Tools

Communication is an essential part of teamwork. As a remote team, you need tools that will help your teammates stay in touch and feel connected with each other. Investing in communication tools like video chat, messaging apps, or email can go a long way in helping your team be productive from afar. Additionally, team collaboration programs like Slack and Google Hangouts are a great way for teammates who live in different locations to stay connected. 

Another great tip is to take time for one-on-one meetings with your employees on at least a weekly basis. The lack of face-to-face time can make it difficult for members of the team to connect. Taking time out for one-on-ones helps build relationships and accountability between team members, as well as solve issues before they arise.

3) Create A Supportive Environment

Offering remote work as an option for employees can be a huge benefit for both the employee and the business. However, for your employees to feel that they are getting the most out of working remotely, you must offer a supportive environment to them. 

You can accomplish this by offering flexible hours: Your employees must have flexibility when it comes to deciding on their own hours. If they are unable to work one day because of something like a family obligation or health issue, they should not feel guilty about it. In fact, this type of flexibility will make them more productive at work in the long run.

Another great tip is to take time for one-on-one meetings with your employees. The lack of face-to-face time can make it difficult for members of the team to connect. Taking time out for one-on-ones helps build relationships and accountability between team members, as well as solve issues before they arise.

4) Encourage Social Interaction

Many people struggle with social isolation when they first start working remotely. To combat this, you must build in time for social interaction with your coworkers and other remote workers in the company. This can be done through daily or weekly office hours, as well as regular check-ins via video chat or phone calls.

If you feel like you need to offer more human interaction than technology can provide for your employees, take advantage of casual virtual coffee breaks or encourage in-person lunch dates between your co-workers who are within driving distance of one another.

5) Encourage Breaks And Time Off

It's important to remember that while remote work has many advantages, it also has its challenges. Providing periodic breaks and time off is one way to help your team adjust. 

It can be difficult for people who are used to the structure of a traditional office environment, so it's important not only as a reward but also as an incentive for them to stay engaged in the process and happy with their work.

Would you like to learn more about adapting your team to remote work? Schedule a call to learn more.