The COVID 19 pandemic brought a surge in the number of remote jobs across various industries. Now, remote or virtual work is an integral part of the global economy as an excellent source of income.
Many firms support remote work because it allows them to hire a diverse range of people from across the world, allowing the organization to perform and develop significantly while spending less on company infrastructure. So, what if you’re managing a remote project team? How do you handle it? Find four helpful tips in this article. But first, what are remote teams?
What Are Remote Teams?
A remote job is a position or arrangement in which an individual works outside of a regular office setting. Instead of going to a physical workplace, remote workers complete their tasks from a location of their choosing, which is frequently their home or another non-office setting.
Remote occupations have become more common as technology has advanced, particularly with the ubiquitous availability of the internet and online communication tools. A remote team is largely situated online and made of several team members working from remote locations. The team may either consist of all or only a few members working remotely.
As a project manager, working with “strangers” whom you don’t see physically may feel risky and impossible to manage. But it can be very easy and stress-free if you know the key to managing a remote project team. We’ll now consider this.
4 Tips for Managing Remote Teams Successfully
Here are four things to consider doing if you want to successfully manage remote project teams.
1. Purchase remote project management software
Project management software are excellent tools for managing remote project teams. These programs lessen the amount of work that a project manager would normally have to complete.
Essential aspects of a project, such as risk management and document organization are aided by project management software. Overall, project management tools make projects simple to participate in remotely and to complete on schedule.
2. Trust your remote team members
Because remote employees no longer clock in and out of the office, they may require some sort of boundary to distinguish their personal time from business hours. Moreso, it would not always be reasonable to expect all of your team members to be available at all times, especially if they work in various time zones.
So, plan ahead of time to discuss everyone’s work schedules and set deadlines accordingly. By doing so, you are instilling trust in them, which is essential for managing remote project teams.
It is critical for project managers to avoid micromanaging remote teams. Why? Employees may become alienated or demoralized if you continue to check on them or monitor their activities.
3. Prioritize communication
It is necessary for you to communicate with your team members at all times. Communication aids in the creation of a free-flowing workspace, which fosters strong relationships among members. And it is even more important when the team is remote and conversations are wholly virtual, making it easier for information to get lost in communication.
While it may appear difficult to manage remote project teams, consistent communication makes it possible to understand and manage your remote team. Despite being remote, project managers should always check in on the team’s well-being; this can help to foster team spirit.
4. Give direct feedbacks
Project managers must feel at ease providing both positive and negative feedback to remote personnel. Make your feedback as clear as possible so that employees understand your expectations and perform better in the future.
If an employee’s performance isn’t up to par, give them constructive feedback rather than just criticism. Inform them of what they did wrong and how they may fix the problem. Use discernment in deciding whether to give private, direct feedback or public correction for the benefit of other team members.
At the same time, recognize an employee’s efforts when they perform well. You can also implement a recognition program for your staff in which they are rewarded for reaching specific milestones. Doing these would strengthen your team even in the absence of a physical connection.
Bottom Line
Managing remote teams may seem like a herculean task, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, bear in mind that the same basic tips for managing any successful project team still applies. Only, you’d need to follow the four tips in this article to meet the peculiar challenges of remote teams. Once you have a solid communication system on ground, set clear ground rules and deadlines, as well as make proper use of effective project management tools, you’re sure to lead your remote team to success.
