Many companies had to adapt quickly to the new management style that remote work has brought. Remote work has many advantages for employees and employers alike, but it is not without its challenges. This blog will help you learn about 10 common problems businesses face when they hire remote workers and provide solutions.
Remote work is a great way to help your business achieve top-notch results. This allows businesses to access a global talent base, eliminating geographical restrictions. The company can now access a wider range of skills and expertise. Remote work can increase productivity. Stanford University conducted a study that showed remote workers to be 13% more efficient than their counterparts in the office.
Rent for office space, utility bills and office supplies can be significantly reduced. Remote workers often report a higher level of job satisfaction, and a better balance between work and life. This leads to fewer employee turnovers. Overall, these benefits may contribute to a stronger bottom line, as well as a more agile and resilient business.
Understanding the problems that may arise and how to overcome them is essential for maximizing the success of your remote workers.
1. Lack of communication
Lack of communication is one of the main problems of remote workers. It can be hard to keep everyone on the same page when employees aren’t physically in the office. This can lead misunderstandings or mistakes.
This problem can be solved by establishing clear communication channels, such as video calls, emails, instant messages, etc. Set clear expectations about response times, and make sure everyone is aware of the communication policy.
2. Having difficulty monitoring performance
Monitoring performance is another problem for remote workers. It can be hard to know how much work employees do when they are working at home. Micromanagement and distrust can result, which is detrimental to the workplace. This problem can be solved by setting clear expectations and measurable targets. Make sure that remote workers know what’s expected of them, and how they will be evaluated.
3. Security Risks
Remote work can increase the risk of data theft, hacking and other security breaches. Investing in cybersecurity measures like encryption and two-factor verification is the solution to this issue. Make sure remote workers are aware of the importance to keep company data secure and train them on how they can identify security risks.
4. The IT and Connectivity Issues
Remote working also means employees are responsible for IT and connectivity. It can cause delays and disruptions to work if an employee has technical problems. This problem can be solved by providing remote workers with the support and resources they need to create a stable and secure home office. This could include the provision of necessary equipment, guides for troubleshooting, and IT support.
5. Lack of team cohesion
It can be hard to create a cohesive team when employees do not work in the same place. It is crucial to build a strong culture of teamwork in order to increase productivity and satisfaction at work. This problem can be solved by investing in team-building activities, such as virtual happy hour, online games and other nonwork-related activities. Encourage your employees to discuss their hobbies and interests to create a collective identity.
6. Distractions in the Home
There are many distractions in the home, such as pets, children, television, and chores. This can result in decreased productivity and stress. To solve this problem, you need to create a clearly defined work schedule and designate a workspace. Encourage remote workers by setting boundaries and removing digital distractions like social media.
7. Lack of Accountability
It can be hard to hold employees accountable when they are not in the office. This can cause a loss of motivation, and a feeling of disconnection from the company. To solve this problem, you need to set clear deadlines and goals. Track progress using project management software such as Trello or Asana.
8. Different time zones
It can be challenging to schedule meetings when employees work in different time zones. This is because it’s difficult to ensure that everyone will be available at the same moment. This problem can be solved by establishing flexible working hours, and creating a policy that clearly defines how to schedule meetings in different time zones. Calendly is a great tool to help schedule meetings.
9. Isolation Social
A social problem is another issue with remote workers. Working at home can lead to loneliness and a feeling of separation from the company. This problem can be solved by establishing regular virtual meetings, and encouraging remote workers to communicate with each other via social media platforms and other online platforms. It is crucial to create a team culture that is inclusive and supportive for the employee’s wellbeing and job satisfaction.
10. Lack of Training
It can be challenging to provide employees with the same training and support they receive in the office. This can cause a feeling of inadequacy, and even a lack in confidence. This problem can be solved by investing in virtual training, and providing regular feedback to remote employees. Encourage remote workers to ask questions when necessary and get clarification.
Remote work has its own challenges. But by addressing them head on, companies can make sure that their remote employees are productive, motivated, and engaged. Remote work can be positive for all parties involved with the right policies and tools.
