The rise of remote work has brought a great deal of freedom and flexibility to many professional organizations. However, is also a downside to working from home; one in which employees feel hidden and insignificant. When working remotely, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the rest of the team and to worry that your contributions are going unnoticed.
One of the biggest challenges of working from home is the lack of visibility. In an office setting, it’s easy to see who is working and who isn’t. But when everyone is working remotely, it’s hard to know what others are doing. This can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation, especially when feedback is not in place to help gauge productivity.
Employers can help their remote employees feel more visible and valued by providing check-ins and regular feedback. This can be done through weekly or bi-weekly meetings, where employees can share their progress and discuss any challenges they are facing. Employers should also be proactive in recognizing their employees’ achievements and giving them credit for their contributions.
Another way employers can help their remote employees feel more connected is by fostering a strong team culture. This can be done through virtual team-building activities, such as online games. It’s also important to encourage communication and collaboration among team members, whether it’s through instant messaging or video conferencing.
Lastly, employers can provide their remote employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed. This includes access to the necessary software and hardware, as well as training and development opportunities. When remote employees feel supported and empowered, they are more likely to feel valued and appreciated.
Working from home can be a lonely and isolating experience but ‘hidden’ should never equal ‘insignificant.’
To summarize, employers can take steps to help their remote employees feel more visible by providing regular check-ins and feedback, fostering a strong team culture, and providing the necessary tools and resources needed to get the job done. Employers CAN create a positive and productive work environment for their remote workers. How well does your company stack up in the new normal of work-from-home?