The COVID-19 pandemic forced the majority of businesses to adopt a remote working model full time. Initially, many business owners were concerned about the effect this new way of working would have on operational efficiencies; it turns out these concerns were unnecessary. Many businesses have become enlightened, learning that far from damaging productivity, the remote working model has improved operational efficiency.
As many businesses are now looking to adopt the remote working model full time, it is useful to consider how to further increase operational efficiency in remote teams. This guide is here to help by offering some of the most effective ways to improve operational efficiency with remote teams.
Use the Right Communication Software
Communication software was one of the most popular business software in 2020 and for good reason. As businesses were forced to adopt a remote working model full time, the software provided an invaluable means of communication for teams that would otherwise find themselves suddenly isolated. However, as more businesses look to continue with a remote working full time, the honeymoon period with standardized communications software is wearing off fast.
Businesses are beginning to realize that the wrong communication software can actually damage operational efficiency. As staff are forced to spend time working with inappropriate software, they are likely to actually decrease communication, rather than use frustrating software. To ensure that your team can continue to benefit from all that communication software has to offer, you must find the right technology for business. There can be a big difference between some of the most popular communication technology, just take a look at this comparison of Slack vs Mattermost. Take the time to find communication software that meets the needs of your team rather than the other way around.
Track Employee Engagement
Employee engagement is a term that is used to describe the relationship an employee has with their work and the organization they are working for. An engaged employee feels enthusiastic about their work and is emotionally committed to the organization that employs them. An engaged employee will go above and beyond in their work to further the interests of the organization they are working for. Whereas a disengaged employee will either do the bare minimum or actively damage the reputation of their employer.
Tracking employee engagement can be very difficult, especially with remote teams. One of the most effective ways of tracking employee engagement is with the use of employee engagement software. Tracking employee engagement can enable you to manage your team more effectively and increase operational efficiencies as you can more appropriately assign work.
Build the Right Company Culture
Even in the context of remote teams, company culture can have a huge impact on operational efficiencies. You should aim to build a company culture that encourages and validates the work of your employees. You should aim to make your remote staff feel as important as any other team members. As a manager of a remote team, it is your job to try to make your staff feel as connected as possible. Creating a culture that openly appreciates and values all staff will help you to increase motivation and operational efficiencies.