Building an effective remote team
The best tips to create a remote team
Are you thinking about moving your company to a remote workforce but aren't sure where to begin because you've only had employees working for you? Although moving to a remote team could seem overwhelming, it's actually easier than it seems, especially with the correct support.
This tool is intended to make the process of assembling a remote team easier while also offering suggestions for lowering employee turnover. It's about setting up the foundation for a productive and long-lasting remote work environment.
Ready to set off on this adventure? Let's get started and create the conditions for a successful remote team.
Essential Preparations for Forming a Remote Team
To guarantee a seamless transition, it's critical to address these early stages systematically before entering into the construction of a remote team.
Determining team responsibilities and setting up procedures for remote management and communication are the two main elements of the foundation.
Identifying Team Structure and Roles
It makes sense to feel pressured to reduce workload by hiring remote workers as soon as possible. But putting together a team quickly can result in expensive mistakes that waste time and money. Carefully consider your staffing needs, both current and prospective.
Start by outlining the positions that need to be filled immediately and those that you expect to need filled soon. An organizational chart or other visual representation can be especially useful. It is recommended that this chart incorporates both current and prospective jobs.
Make a list of the precise competences and skills needed for each new role. Establishing clear expectations for candidates and streamlining the hiring process are two benefits of this preliminary effort, which also informs job marketing.
Streamlining Remote Communication and Project Management
The next crucial stage is to ascertain the dynamics of project management and distant communication. Consider the frequency and nature of remote meetings, taking into account time zone differences and the expectations for video presence.
It is necessary to create daily communication preferences, whether by email or other platforms. Consider if your team will rely on synchronous (real-time) or asynchronous communication methods.
Some of the most widely used tools for remote collaboration are GoToMeeting, Twist, Skype, and Slack. Slack, for instance, records conversations for convenient access and facilitates structured collaboration through distinct channels.
Finally, project management is essential. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Basecamp are popular choices. Try out these platforms to see which one best suits your company's goals and budget as each has different capabilities.
You'll build a solid foundation for your remote team and facilitate efficient communication and work flow by completing this crucial groundwork.
Recruiting Experienced Remote Professionals
Now that the foundation has been established, it's time to hire people whose abilities fit the positions you have defined. Instead of transitioning regular office workers to remote positions, you might choose to look for applicants who have prior experience working remotely.
These people frequently have a lower learning curve, which could cut down on the amount of time and money needed for training. They probably know how to use the project management and communication tools you've selected.
Use employment boards that are specifically focused on remote opportunities instead of traditional ones to locate these kinds of applicants. Professionals wanting employment freedom in terms of location and possessing organizational, communication, and self-discipline skills frequently use these platforms.
Consider advertising your position on our comprehensive remote employment board to connect with a wide pool of remote talent.
Establish Clear Expectations
It's critical to communicate the job expectations at the interview stage and gauge the candidate's comprehension of the position. This is crucial if your company is a startup where positions may have multiple responsibilities. Effectively conveying these objectives from the outset can greatly lower staff attrition.
When you decide to move forward with a candidate, reiterate these expectations to make sure there is mutual understanding and agreement.
Crafting a Memorable Onboarding Experience
Remote employee onboarding necessitates a deliberate strategy. Although it is not possible to be physically there on the first day, there are inventive ways to welcome and integrate new team members.
On chat services such as Slack, a short and friendly greeting can create a good atmosphere. Give new hires a thorough digital welcome package with details on the organization, its goals, training protocols, and a summary of their responsibilities.
Consider sending a physical welcome present to add a personal touch. Products like team-signed cards and company-branded goods can foster a feeling of community and connection.
Even in a remote environment, these efforts to improve the onboarding process can help lower attrition and promote a sense of team cohesiveness.
Maintaining Robust Communication in Your Remote Team
As your remote staff settles in, whether it's been weeks or months, keeping the initial energy and enthusiasm from the onboarding period is vital. Every day, small acts of kindness like a happy "Good morning!" on Slack can raise the team's morale.
Establishing a sense of connection between remote and in-house team members through regular check-ins is essential to overcoming emotions of isolation and distance. To prevent going too far in micromanagement, it's crucial to find a balance. This methodical strategy guarantees that the team stays cohesive and motivated by maintaining good and productive communication.
If you're ready to start hiring begin by posting a remote job
At Work Remote Now! We know that quality canndidates matter for building a remote team. Click here to post a job and begin assembling your dream team with us. We offer bundles as well for those looking to hire more than one position for their company.