A remote workforce is something that has really enjoyed a period of boom. While a big part of the growth can be pinned on the need for people to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fact is that it was already growing in popularity well before 2020. Employers were starting to see the many ways in which a remote workforce could benefit the business and make for a happier, more productive group of employees.
With that said, there are some specific concerns and considerations for remote workers. Having a reliable communication system is arguably one of the most important factors. But why are these communication systems so important? Let’s examine it closer.
It Allows for On-Going Feedback
When you have all your employees in one physical location, it’s only natural to interact with them on a regular basis, and provide them with helpful and much-needed feedback. Having a remote workforce can take away that natural ease and ability to deliver feedback. A reliable communication system makes it easy to be in contact with employees throughout the workday, and ensure that feedback is happening in real-time. Feedback helps an employee to be their very best and most productive self.
Employee Engagement Can Suffer in a Remote Environment
For companies whose workforce is entirely remote, there can be a real lack of employee engagement and sense of togetherness. It can feel like each person is working on their own, without any outside help, input, and no sense of teamwork. Opening up the lines of communication not just with your employees, but inter-departments, helps to create a more engaging environment wherein employees feel part of a bigger picture and part of the team. It also helps them to see they aren’t alone, and that they can and should reach out to other departments to ensure workflow is smooth.
Let’s face it, when employees feel at ease and socialize with each other, it also offers a huge boost to the company morale – which leads to greater productivity and success.
Everyone Is On the Same Page
Keeping everyone on the same page is essential for a company to run smoothly, and that doesn’t change simply because your workforce is remote. Employees need to be aware of system changes, production issues, expectations, goals, timelines, priorities, and so forth. This can be achieved through constant communication, and even hosting virtual staff meetings.
It’s just as much about you keeping everyone on the same page as employees feeling comfortable enough to ask questions when they need help and guidance. It’s about open lines of communication.
Choose the System Wisely
In terms of setting up a reliable communication system to make all these factors possible, this is something you want to choose wisely. It needs to utilize modern technology at a reasonable price, feature tech support when needed, and isn’t constantly going down.
Setting the Team Up for Success
Having reliable communication systems basically allows you to set your remote team up for success.