What this post is about
- Recognizing challenges
- Establishing a remote culture
- Developing a strategy for long-term remote processes
- Building on trust and flexibility
- Integrating efficient use of technology
40 hours a week in the office? What was once a universal model is gradually turning into a thing of the past. Remote work has become an important factor for employees when deciding whether or not to take a job. Companies are also beginning to recognize the advantages of remote work and are trying to break away from old structures. A Forbes study showed that 16% of all companies worldwide have already switched to fully remote operation.
This number might seem small at first glance. But when you consider all the different jobs and industries that can adapt to remote work, it's actually a pretty good starting point. Customer service jobs are particularly well suited to this form of work. Zammad has already embraced this flexible work style, utilizing video calls, messenger tools, and project management software for remote work. Leading a remote team effectively is undoubtedly a challenge, but as Zammad CEO and remote-first advocate Martin Edenhofer can confirm, it is by no means impossible.
1. Communication is Everything
Digital communication tools are already being used in the professional world, but not to their full extent. They offer every opportunity to hold meetings in the digital space and maintain a constant flow of communication. At Zammad, Jitisi, Mattermost and GitHub keep all team members up to date despite being spread across different locations. A team channel also makes it possible to share transparent communication and information.
Large companies such as Airbnb prove that remote work is not just for small teams. A look at their successful implementation of digital communication tools shows how it can be done. Under the motto "Live and work anywhere," the American company allows its employees to work from home or any other location they prefer, incorporating this aspect even into their recruiting campaign to attract more international talent.
Fostering a Feedback Culture
When working remotely, digital means of communication should never be used exclusively to pass on information, but should also contribute to feedback and staff development. Give your team attention and a sympathetic ear by reading between the lines and recognizing potential problems from afar.
Casual conversations can help filter out moods and detect if there is dissatisfaction or if minor conflicts are brewing. Make your colleagues feel like they are always part of a cohesive team, even if everyone is working remotely. Remember, no one is a lone warrior!
Allowing Trust and Flexibility
Remote work means accepting individual working styles, as long as the field of work permits. The main focus is always on meeting deadlines and successfully completing projects. However, the path to the finish line can vary.
Team leaders need to trust their employees, which in turn acts as a powerful multiplier for productivity. Allowing employees freedom in their workflow unleashes more enthusiasm and willingness to work. This mindset is also shared by our CEO, Martin Edenhofer: "Hire people you know are better at their job than you’d be!"
Communicating Expectations
Autonomous work requires trust, but it also demands a clear definition of goals. Your team needs to know what is expected of them, what freedoms they have, and where their responsibilities lie. This clarity is essential for achieving set milestones and project goals within the timeframe.
By doing so, team leaders bridge the gap to seamless communication. Informing, providing updates, and communicating changes are the driving forces that keep daily work running smoothly. If you record specifications and discuss them in detail with your team, you can forgo control mechanisms and, in return, earn greater trust from your colleagues.
Ensuring the Provision of Technical Equipment
Remote work is hardly possible without basic technical equipment. Tools such as Trello (project management), Mattermost (communication), Jitsi (video call) or Zammad (ticketing system/helpdesk) facilitate location-independent processes. The goal should be to create a workflow that mirrors the office environment.
Allow colleagues adequate time to familiarize themselves with these tools. A knowledge database, reference materials, and guides can help provide quick answers to questions and optimize the use of these tools.
Strengthening Team Spirit
Even if team members work in different locations, there are numerous ways to celebrate successes together or plan activities. Celebrating achieved goals or completed projects with video calls should be the minimum to express gratitude and appreciation. If you have scheduled numerous calls during the project phase, make sure to dedicate at least one to the project's completion.
Don't neglect fun. Activities like team-building exercises are a great alternative to the traditional after-work drink. Whether it's an online escape room or a digital game night, bringing your team together outside of working hours on a voluntary basis can be very rewarding. In addition to virtual offerings, a regular team offsite can also provide a valuable opportunity to meet in person and strengthen bonds. At Zammad, an annual team offsite is a staple of our program. How such an offsite works for us is described in detail in our article from the last team event.
Summary
Master the challenge of remote work with digital presence and a leap of faith! Grant your team the freedom to choose their personal work style, guided only by transparent communication and clear goal setting. With this foundation, you can lead your team as a remote unit towards success!