Managing a work-from-home team carries a whole different set of challenges from traditional workplace management.

Our world has undergone some drastic changes over the past month, and it’s taken some time for everyone to adjust. Despite the looming threat of disease and infection, the world keeps turning and many of us still need to work to get by, one way or another. As workplaces have been adopting work-from-home strategies, managers are navigating new territory in terms of how to manage during a crisis and supervise a team that is so spread out. Labor Solutions has some key points to bear in mind as you strive to keep your team productive while staying safe.

Managing from a Distance
For many managers, trying to supervise employees sheltering at home is unfamiliar territory. It can be done, however, by making just a few simple changes to the way you manage.

  • Communication is key. Employees may feel lost and on their own at first, so it’s important to let them know you are still there for them. Update them throughout the day on project statuses, timelines, team achievements, etc. Even if you don’t have new information to impart, touch base frequently just to keep the lines of communication open.
  • Have realistic expectations. Working from home has its own set of challenges. Kids are home and need supervision, relatives and neighbors may need assistance, and any number of minor crises may pop up unexpectedly. Be patient with employees and encourage them to let you know what is happening in their lives.
  • Use the buddy system. Assign coworkers “buddies” or peer coaches they can go to with simple questions and comments about work. This team approach will help everyone feel more connected and relieve some of the burden of constant communications from the manager’s shoulders.

Labor Solutions Will Be Here
No matter the need, whether you are looking for work-at-home employees or anticipate a surge in hiring, Labor Solutions will help you find the best-qualified candidates for your open positions. Let us take care of the hiring so you can focus on leading your team forward into the future.