This has been a challenging year for businesses. Many of the standard business operations have had to abruptly change in order to keep the population safe and healthy. Chief among those changes, within the space of a few weeks many companies have had to enable remote working for most or all of their employees. While close to a quarter of the country’s workforce had already been working remotely, the change has still been immensely disruptive to many organizations.
Still, the new paradigm does not have to mean a drop in productivity or effectiveness for your business. In order to optimize continuing operations, here are a few recommendations that will help your business cope with the shift to a remote workforce.
Set Clear Policies
Everyone works differently, so if you have specific expectations about deadlines, timing or “office” hours, you need to inform your team. For example, you might want to set a policy that everyone responds to emails marked as urgent within half an hour. Providing clear expectations helps minimize any frustration that could stem from a perception that there is a lack of productivity.
Communicate
Nothing can fully replace the simplicity of walking into someone’s office for a conversation, but the many communication apps available today go a long way in approximating that environment. It may take a bit of time to find the best balance between email, text, phone calls, and video conferencing—but it’s worth the effort to ensure your whole team is communicating with one another on a regular basis.
Provide the Tools
You’d never expect employees in an office to buy their own computers, pens, and other office supplies. Right now, many people are more financially strapped than ever before, so make sure you are providing the tools and technology they need to do their job properly. For some team members suddenly finding themselves at home with students doing schoolwork, that could mean upgrading their WiFi as well. Ask your team for an honest assessment of what they need.
Embrace Education Opportunities
Just as important as physical tools like WiFi and paperclips, educational tools and opportunities can empower and improve management teams during these atypical circumstances. All levels of management may struggle with new communication methods, physical distance, and lack of visibility with their employees, and offering them the opportunity to learn how to best manage under these circumstances is critical. Embrace opportunities for management education (both digital, and eventually physical), like those offered at industry events, such as Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2020.
Gather the Team
It helps to maintain morale when people feel they are a part of a team. Bolster that feeling by bringing everyone together at least once a week for a group video call. You don’t even need to talk about business – you can swap shopping tips or show off your quarantine haircuts – just take a few minutes to share some thoughts and bond as a group. Your presence as a leader is important, but don’t let your meetings turn into obligatory-attendance sessions where everyone is just listening to you speak. Consider the value of just sitting back and listening to your team – they may surprise you with some good ideas and valuable input.
Focus on Output
People need structure to their workdays, but that structure does not have to look the same for each employee. Some may get a running start at 6 am, take a break for exercise mid-day and then work into the evening. Others may prefer to adhere strictly to a 9-5 workday. Still, others may find themselves caring for children that were previously in daycare or school during the workday. Remember that what matters is your personnel’s output, not their style, so allow for some flexibility.
Embrace Your Compassion
Every business will set its own standards here but be mindful that employees are facing gravely challenging situations of their own that could include financial shortfalls and health concerns. And while it can be frustrating for employers who are unaccustomed to having no direct visibility on their workforce, try to remember that your allowing them to work remotely is helping to reduce their vulnerability to risk – and yours.
Above all, keep in mind that you hired each member of your team for their ability to contribute as a valued member of the workforce. That hasn’t changed simply because their desk is now located somewhere else. Your trust in their dedication and commitment is one of the most important resources you can provide right now, in a time of uncertainty for so many. By continuing to believe in their commitment, you strengthen that bond and provide a higher level of support that will pay dividends in their wellbeing and their productivity.
About ASIS: Founded in 1955, ASIS International is the world's largest membership organization for security management professionals. With hundreds of chapters across the globe, ASIS is recognized as the premier source for learning, networking, standards, and research. Through its board certifications, award-winning Security Management magazine, and Global Security Exchange (formerly the Annual Seminar and Exhibits)—the most influential event in the profession—ASIS ensures its members and the security community have access to the intelligence and resources necessary to protect their people, property, and information assets. Learn more about the work we do at www.asisonline.org.
