In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, remote work has become a ubiquitous norm. While it offers flexibility and convenience, it also can present challenges when it comes to maintaining employee engagement and fostering a vibrant company culture.
As organizations like Poston Communications continue to adapt to remote work, it’s crucial to understand how to engage employees and create an inclusive culture – no matter where employees may be located in the country!
Here are six tips to help with keeping employees engaged in remote settings:
- Communication Is Key
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful remote work strategy. Regularly scheduled team meetings, one-on-one check-ins and clear, concise emails are essential. Use a variety of communication tools like video conferences, instant messaging (i.e., Teams or Slack) and utilize project management software or processes to help with collaboration and transparency.
- Encourage Open Feedback
Create an environment where employees feel comfortable providing constructive feedback. Encourage both positive and negative feedback and recognize employees’ achievements to create a culture of continuous improvement and growth. Openly discuss employees’ wins with the team in meetings and showcase client success stories during group calls.
- Host Virtual Events
Hosting virtual events frequently allows team members to connect with one another in a casual setting where different team members can get to know one another in a personal setting. This allows the opportunity to set up fun activities to learn more about team members and their different interests. Hosting get togethers also brings a sense of belonging that strengthens the overall culture of a company.
- Embrace Flexibility
One big advantage of remote work is flexibility. Acknowledge and embrace this by allowing employees to work at co-working spaces, meet up with other colleagues in convenient meeting locations nearby and embrace the opportunity to work with a client at their office if given the opportunity!
- Invest in Technology
Provide employees with technology such as laptops, printers, cameras, collaboration tools, project management software and secure communication platforms that are efficient and easy to use. Set your employees up for success by allowing them to assemble their home offices with everything they need to be organized, productive and efficient at home.
- Organize In-Person Firm Retreats
Organizing in-person retreats is a great way to connect with your employees and set aside a few times a year to come together and collaborate, share ideas, discuss goals and opportunities, and organize in-person guest speakers and activities to connect with peers and explore a new city.
Engaging employees and cultivating a strong company culture in a remote setting requires intentional effort. By prioritizing communication, setting clear expectations, recognizing achievements and fostering a sense of belonging, organizations can thrive in remote settings. Embracing flexibility and investing in technology will ensure that remote work becomes a sustainable and fulfilling way of doing business.
Shannon Holleran is a member of Poston’s media relations team and is based in Denver, Colorado.