If you manage a remote team, you have probably realized there are some things you need to consider to be successful. While working apart can be challenging, there are some ways to make management more efficient. There are plenty of tools and other tips to use. These tools can ensure your team gets the necessary work done while remaining collaborative. You may need one or all of these tips and tools. It depends on the project. Here are some ideas of how you can manage a remote team.
Have Effective Software
Thousands of different software products exist that you can use to manage your team. To narrow down what you need, think about the goal of your project and how you want your team to communicate. You may need a way to log work done, changes made, or other additions to your project. There are a few ways to do this. You may want to look at spreadsheets or other collaborative logging tools. There are several popular ones on the market, like Smartsheet. However, there are plenty of Smartsheet alternatives if you want to consider a different product. You may also want to look at communication software. Try looking for chat, text, or video conferencing items. If you choose the right remote team management software, your team can feel closer and less isolated. It can lead to higher morale and more goals reached.
Have a Schedule
While working from home means your schedule may be a bit more relaxed, there are some ways to keep everyone on task. If your project is time-sensitive, you may need daily check-ins to ensure your team is hitting milestones on time. You can create a schedule that explains what items are due. It can keep everyone on schedule. Make sure to budget extra time in case a problem arises or other issues that your team members find.
Make Time For Meetings
Meeting once a week through video conferencing software may help your team feel more connected. You can also use the time to answer questions and check on progress. The meetings do not have to be long, but you should have them routinely. Meetings are also a way to show you are interested and invested in your team’s success.
Have Open Communication
To ensure your team never has to feel isolated or stuck, have a way that members can quickly reach out and ask a question or have a conversation with a teammate. There are many ways to do this, such as with a chat program, email, or virtual room. A virtual space is a recent addition to remote teams, but it is a way to make the workday more interactive. You can decorate the rooms to look like offices or other areas, which can be more interesting than traditional chatrooms.
Use some of these tips to help your team complete projects remotely. Many types of software are available, so research and see which ones meet your needs. Managing a remote team does not have to be difficult, especially if you plan accordingly.
