In the wake of the global pandemic, the traditional office landscape has undergone a seismic shift. Hybrid work models, blending remote and in-office work, have become the new norm for many organisations. Managing remote teams and adapting to this new paradigm presents both challenges and opportunities. Effectively managing a hybrid work environment requires a strategic approach that prioritises communication, collaboration, and employee engagement. So how do we help managers navigate this evolving landscape?
Embrace Technology: In today’s digital age, leveraging technology is paramount to maintaining connectivity and productivity when managing hybrid teams. Communication tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom and now well known and help to facilitate seamless collaboration among in-office and remote teams. Project management platforms can also be implemented like Asana or Trello to track tasks and deadlines transparently. The Australian tech giant Atlassian has successfully transitioned to a hybrid work model, empowering employees to work from anywhere while maintaining productivity and collaboration. By leveraging tools like Slack and Trello, Atlassian ensures seamless communication and project management across remote and in-office teams.
Establish Clear Expectations: Set clear expectations regarding work hours, communication channels, and deliverables to promote accountability and transparency. Encourage open dialogue with team members to address any concerns or challenges they may encounter while working remotely. By establishing clear guidelines, managers can foster a sense of trust and autonomy among their teams, empowering them to thrive in this work environment.
Foster a Culture of Flexibility: Recognize that flexibility is key to the success of a hybrid work model. In fact, 77% of people report being more productive at home than in the work environment. Allow employees to customize their work schedules to accommodate personal preferences and responsibilities. Encourage regular breaks and emphasize the importance of work-life balance to prevent burnout. By prioritizing flexibility, managers can create a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and motivated to perform at their best. The graphic design platform Canvapromotes a culture of flexibility and autonomy, allowing employees to choose their preferred work environment, whether it be in the office or remotely. By prioritizing work-life balance and fostering a supportive work culture, Canva empowers its employees to thrive in a remote team.
Maintain and Increase Regular Check-Ins: Regular one-on-one meetings with team members to provide guidance, feedback, and support should be the norm. These check-ins can be used as an opportunity to discuss goals, address concerns, and celebrate achievements. Additionally, organize team meetings or virtual coffee breaks to foster camaraderie and collaboration among team members. These can be made fun by starting with or asking questions generated by tools such as Daresay or taking turns to run short sessions on topics of interest. These additional check-ins can be a s short as 5 minutes but serve to keep people connected.
Lead by Example: As a manager, lead by example by demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to the organization’s goals. Communicate openly and transparently with your team, and be receptive to feedback and suggestions for improvement. Show empathy and understanding towards team members facing challenges or obstacles, and provide them with the support they need to succeed. By leading by example, managers can inspire trust, loyalty, and dedication among their teams, driving success in a hybrid work environment.
In conclusion, managing remote teams requires adaptability, communication, and a focus on employee engagement. Managers and their teams can thrive if they apply these principles.
If you would like more information or training in the area of leadership, please contact JEM Training on 1300 850 959
