In our digital world pixels have replaced handshakes and for many of us, remote working has become the norm.

Globally freelancers, entrepreneurs, and businesses are embracing the remote-working philosophy and conducting business from wherever, whenever. A rising number of young professionals have leveraged the use of technology to work remotely and live a nomadic lifestyle. Fact is, our lives are intricately woven into the fabric of the digital realm; connectivity isn’t just a convenience, it’s a way of life.

The many benefits of working remotely include increased productivity and makes for happier healthier employees, all while eliminating the dreaded commute and reducing absenteeism and stress. Sure, routines and boundaries need to be in place. And to stay on track, work from home employees also need a designated workspace, discipline, and the right software to maintain performance and hit deliverables.

But how do you successfully lead a team in the digital age? Is it even possible to manage people you rarely see in person?

The answer is a resounding “Yes”. However, for many managers it’s like learning to drive on the wrong side of the road. You have to get to the same destination as before, but you now have different signals, cues and controls.

Managing a remote team presents unique challenges and requires a fresh perspective on leadership and collaboration. So, if you’re a leader facing the challenge of managing a remote team, there are certain strategies you can learn to ensure it works out well.

Here’s how to lead beyond the screen:

• Make empathy a priority. Behind every screen is a human being with feelings, and lives filled with joys and challenges. Take the time to listen, understand and support colleagues, thereby fostering trust and respect.
• Define responsibilities. Clarity and transparency reduce ambiguity and create better results. Communication is key, be clear when delegating tasks and responsibilities.
• Ensure connectivity. A worker is only as good as his tools. Provide training and skill development needed to thrive in the digital world. Anticipate challenges and have solutions ready.
• Don’t micromanage your team. Trust your team to get the job done. After you’ve set the agenda, there should be no need to monitor activity. Instead, focus on the outcome.
• Schedule regular check-ins and make sure everyone has a voice. Provide continuous feedback and recognize excellence.
• Encourage social interaction. Create space for non-work chatter. Share and celebrate accomplishments in a virtual face-to-face setting. It’s your responsibility to create a sense of belonging.
• Encourage set working hours. Respect work-life and non-work-life to keep your team happier and more productive.
• Be flexible as long as the work gets done, meets the standards, and other members are not inconvenienced.

Remote management has unique challenges that don’t come up when managing a team on-site and definitely requires a shift in mindset

Embrace the opportunities that technology brings, but never lose sight of the human aspect that binds us together.

Good luck!

Source: solvoglobal.com, hays.com.au, commonpurpose.org, peoplemanagingpeople.com, hbr.org, fool.com, commonpurpose.org, teamwork.com