3 Smart Ways to Manage Virtual Employees Effectively

Is there a smarter way to do this?

 

It’s the quintessential question good managers always ask.

 

As the person tasked with leading the pack, finding ways to optimise resources and improving processes comes with the territory.

 

You will notice that the working dynamics of virtual employees coincides with that of a manager. A self-managed one so to speak.

 

Both operate nearly in the same vein.

 

In a virtual  office set up, a remote staff  juggles tasks and executes them at their own pace to what they think is reasonable. They manage calendars to their discretion. They plan ahead and work out the best schedule for completion.

 

In a way, they are managers  in their own right. What makes them even better is that they don’t demand a large paycheck.

 

However, while virtual employees are often self-reliant, a good manager is still necessary to maintain a smoothsailing virtual working relationship.

 

Build trust and rapport with your virtual team by:

 

Treating People like People

 

The old adage that says “things get managed, people get led” is true.

 

People have feelings, hopes, dreams, worries and usually act based upon them. It comes with the recognition that people respond better to personal touch.  The consequence of managers treating subordinates in an impersonal way is that they’ll get a response, but not the kind they want.

 

At all times, it’s always better to address issues rationally and tactfully, as opposed to   dishing out  cold reprimands as if the receiving party is just a resource or a thing. If you want exceptional results from your virtual employees, treat them like you would want to be treated.

 

Showing Appreciation

 

The importance of expressing sincere appreciation for their efforts cannot be stressed enough.

 

In a virtual setting where chances of meeting in person is very minimal,  expressing kind words can cover the distance of a million miles away. Though it cannot compensate for a physical pat on the back, still the boost in confidence it provides can go a long way.

 

Communicating Clearly

 

Recent reports show that in the UK, almost 20 million citizens now interact with 120 government bodies through virtual channels and transact all their government related business in the same manner.

 

The magnitude of making something like this work is hardly unthinkable.

 

But the point is, it works.

 

And this can be replicated by having a clear line of communication.

 

There are a myriad of options available at your choosing. But you need to determine which one will work best for you and for your virtual employee. Consider limiting factors like internet connection.

 

Will the application you have chosen cause more problems than it solves on your remote staff’s end? Will it run on the operating system he or she is using? Any minor detail should be addressed if it can in any way hamper his or her capacity to do the work.

 

When it comes to virtual employees, there are so many proven ways to efficiently bring out the best in them. There may not be a one-size fits all solution but eventually, you will find out what works and what doesn’t. Change methods whenever you deem fit and it won’t be long until you have an exceptional working relationship with your virtual team.

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