As the COVID-19 pandemic took hold in the US and around the world in 2020, remote work became the norm for many companies. After all, allowing employees to work from home meant that many companies could continue to operate even through mandated shut-downs and closures throughout the country. But for some employers, the perceived risks for allowing their staff members to work from home was simply too great. The number one concern for many of those company owners and managers was that the productivity levels for work-from-home employees would plummet. As it turns out, that was not the case.

Employers' views on remote and hybrid work vary widely, influenced by industry, company culture, leadership styles, and experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s a nuanced look at their perspectives:

Positive Views on Remote and Hybrid Work

Managing work-from-home employees who live in other countries requires thoughtful planning and execution to ensure productivity, compliance, and engagement. Here are some key steps and considerations:

Understand Legal and Compliance Requirements

Conducting effective remote employee performance reviews requires careful planning and execution to ensure clarity, fairness, and meaningful feedback. Here’s a step-by-step guide to conducting remote performance reviews.

Preparation

Schedule Adequate Time: Set aside enough time for the review. Avoid rushing through it.
Choose the Right Technology: Select a reliable video conferencing platform that supports screen sharing and clear communication.

If you are a manager or business owner and your staff includes work-from-home employees, you know all too well how important it is for those remote workers to have reliable internet service. If they don’t, it can disrupt their workflow and have a negative impact on their productivity levels. The best internet service providers (ISPs) for rural locations can vary depending on the specific area and what services are available. However, some ISPs are known for offering reliable and often specialized services for rural areas.

Recruiting the best applicants for remote work requires a tailored approach that accounts for the unique challenges and opportunities of remote positions. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively:

Determining whether your business is a good candidate for remote work involves assessing various factors related to your company's operations, culture, and specific requirements. What follows are some key considerations to help you evaluate if your business is suited for a fully remote setup.

Increasing the productivity of remote workers requires a combination of effective communication, proper tools, and a supportive work environment. Here are some strategies to enhance remote work productivity:

Clear Communication Channels:
• Ensure transparent communication through platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or other collaboration tools.
• Schedule regular video calls to maintain a sense of connection among team members.

Transitioning your business into a fully remote company requires careful planning, communication, and the implementation of effective tools and processes. Here are steps to help you make a smooth transition:

Implementing effective management practices for work-at-home employees is crucial for maintaining productivity, communication, and employee well-being. Yet even for seasoned management professionals, understanding exactly what constitutes best management practices can be a challenge. What follows are our suggestions to help you be the best manager you can be for your work-at-home employees: