Managing productivity and performance from a distance has been difficult for many managers, whilst many employees have appreciated and thrived in an environment that allows them more time for other aspects of their life.
Establishing a framework to operate within building trust and personal responsibility are key as in a remote / hybrid working environment it becomes even more important to set expectations of what work looks like (work hours, availability, etc), align on standards and strengthen the accountability equation. For managers this is about setting the expectations with your team and balancing autonomy with key moments of support.
Try these tips to be more empowering in your hybrid workplace:
- Productivity and trust are increased when people are clear on the guard rails – set a clear framework and provide freedom to act within that.
- People can feel that decision-making is less clear remotely. Set up clear expectations around how accountability will work. Be clear on your requests, make sure people are making good promises/ commitments to you; agree how you will follow up so people feel supported but not micro-managed.
- When people are remote they feel more isolated from the business context. Invest time in setting direction of ‘why’, clarifying the direction, providing resources and tools to succeed; sharing context and information.
- Train people around personal responsibility and encourage above the line thinking.
- Focus energy and conversation around outcomes vs outputs.
For further tips and insights view our selection of case studies, ebooks, reports and white papers or contact us to learn how we can transform your organisation's culture.