Many businesses were forced to try out remote work during the pandemic out of safety and necessity. And for most, remote work has been an overwhelming success. Because of remote work, companies also have access to a larger pool of talent when hiring remote workers since they’re not limited to a specific area. Workers also don’t have to worry about beating the morning rush or moving into expensive cities to be closer to work; they need to focus on the work at hand. Recruiters can now select the best candidate for the role regardless of their residence. However, even with these benefits, some companies still have apprehensions about teleworking. But when done right, having a virtual workspace can have beneficial results for both the business and its remote employees.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when going virtual and hiring remote workers:
1. Maintain Effective Communication
Internal and external communication has always been an essential component of business success. But maintaining communication lines may be tricky, especially when management and remote workers are spread out around the country or even around the world. Though the transition can be initially challenging, tons of virtual collaboration tools will keep the lines of communication open. From apps for team chats to online meeting scheduling and even productivity, teams are sure to find the right app or set of apps for their team. Aside from using the right toolkit, having the right mindset and following virtual workplace etiquette should be expected from all team members, especially during remote meetings.
2. Keep Information Secure
Much like how a security team protects physical assets and employees from external threats, cybersecurity protects businesses from external sources that try to gain unauthorized access to company assets like data, systems, networks, and so on. But cybersecurity should be a company-wide effort, not just the IT department. Because of the nature of remote work (with confidential files being shared via email, etc.), the risk of cybersecurity breaches is relatively higher in remote workplaces than in traditional office settings. This means that everyone in the company should be aware of basic cybersecurity practices through orientations or regular newsletters.
3. Digitize Traditional Office Tasks
The usual processes that seem run-of-the-mill in brick-and-mortar offices, like routing printed contractor proposals, may be considered impractical for remote workplaces. This is why reviewing procedures and identifying those that are better off being done online is crucial in making virtual workplaces effective. As previously mentioned, there are a lot of apps online that can help you digitize workplace tasks. You can even consider outsourcing mobile app developers to create a system tailored to your company’s needs.
4. Continue Engaging with Employees
Hiring remote workers can be considered beneficial for the company to lower financial costs or increase employee productivity. However, companies must not invest time and resources in employee engagement. While employees flourish in a remote work setup, it’s important to stay connected with them, even from a distance. Employee engagement practices include regular check-ins by immediate superiors, employee recognition programs, and various themed quiz nights!
Maintaining a successful virtual workspace may be challenging, but it can benefit both employers and employees. Access to a bigger selection of talented workers and having a productive virtual workplace offer possible savings and potential revenue gains.
Like any business decision, the choice to transition to a remote work setting has its own unique set of risks and rewards. Businesses must minimize or eliminate these risks through careful planning and continuous improvement to make remote work for them.
