How can remote workers receive the same level of support as on-site employees?

1 Define clear goals and expectations

One of the first steps to support remote workers is to communicate clearly and frequently what they need to achieve and how they will be evaluated. This includes setting SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals, providing feedback and recognition, and establishing regular check-ins and meetings. By defining clear goals and expectations, you can help remote workers align their work with the company vision and values, and avoid confusion and frustration.

2 Provide accessible and engaging resources

Another way to support remote workers is to provide them with accessible and engaging resources that can help them learn and perform their tasks. This may include online courses, videos, podcasts, webinars, manuals, guides, FAQs, and other relevant materials. You can also use interactive tools such as quizzes, polls, surveys, and games to test their knowledge and skills, and encourage them to ask questions and share feedback. By providing accessible and engaging resources, you can help remote workers acquire the necessary competencies and confidence.

3 Create a sense of belonging and community

A third way to support remote workers is to create a sense of belonging and community among them and with the rest of the team. This may include organizing virtual events, activities, and celebrations, such as icebreakers, trivia, happy hours, birthdays, and anniversaries. You can also use social media, instant messaging, and video conferencing platforms to facilitate informal communication and collaboration, and foster trust and rapport. By creating a sense of belonging and community, you can help remote workers feel valued and connected.

4 Offer coaching and mentoring opportunities

A fourth way to support remote workers is to offer them coaching and mentoring opportunities that can help them grow and develop their potential. This may include pairing them with experienced colleagues, managers, or external experts who can guide them, advise them, and share best practices. You can also encourage them to participate in online forums, groups, and networks where they can learn from others, exchange ideas, and seek support. By offering coaching and mentoring opportunities, you can help remote workers enhance their performance and career prospects.

5 Solicit and act on feedback

A fifth way to support remote workers is to solicit and act on their feedback regarding their orientation experience and their overall satisfaction. This may include conducting surveys, interviews, focus groups, or other methods to collect their opinions, suggestions, and concerns. You can also use metrics such as completion rates, retention rates, productivity levels, and quality scores to measure their outcomes and impact. By soliciting and acting on feedback, you can help remote workers improve their engagement and retention, and identify areas for improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?