Vast numbers of employees now work remotely, and it’s too
late to develop a set of remote-work policies if you didn’t
already have one. But there are ways to make the remote-work
experience productive and engaging — for employees and the
organization.
“At most organizations, scenario planning
focuses on the necessary operational responses to ensure
business continuity. Few of these plans address the ability
or bandwidth of employees to focus on their work,” says
Brian Kropp, Distinguished Vice President, Research,
Gartner.
Use both direct conversations and indirect
observations to get visibility into employees’ challenges
and concerns. Use every opportunity to make clear to
employees that you support and care for them. To facilitate
regular conversations between managers and employees,
provide managers with guidance on how best to broach
sensitive subjects arising from the COVID-19 pandemic,
including alternative work models, job security and
prospects, impact on staffing and tension in the workplace.
Make sure employees have the technology they need to be
successful, which may be more than just a mobile phone and
laptop. For example, if you expect employees to attend
virtual meetings, do they have adequate cameras?
Even if you don’t have an extensive set of technology
and collaborative tools available, you can equip employees
to function effectively when remote. But don’t just assume
that people know how to operate with virtual communications
— or are comfortable in that environment.
Blaine Hughes
May 3, 2020
Great insights and advice! I've been involved in Sales Ops for 10 years and found a lot of useful points here.
Alice Bailey
May 4, 2020
Very helpful post! The tips on technology and communication are spot on.
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