How To Use Tech Tools To Set Up Remote Work Culture

In our last post, we talked about the importance of the right project management tools. Here, we discuss how you can use some of those same tools to set up remote work culture.

Working with a remote team is just like working with one in person. You have to set expectations each day, stay on top of projects, and complete daily tasks. But, many aspects of company culture can get lost with remote offices.

So, here’s how to use tech to set up remote work culture so your virtual day looks just like another day at the office:

Use Video Chat To Have Morning Meetings

Good communication is the first aspect of a company to take a hit when remote work is set up.

Morning meetings are an important part of any workplace. So host a virtual 10-15 min meeting each day with your team to touch base and check in.

Video chat will allow you to see and gage responses better. With tools like Zoom or GoTo Meeting, you can carry out meetings like you would in person.

Use Email/Text To Set Expectations & Keep Track Of Employees

Set expectations with employees and make sure they understand what is acceptable.

You can not expect your employees to be available 24/7, but set hours within which you can reach them each work day. That way, you can set meetings and daily tasks accordingly.

With remote work culture, it can be difficult to keep track of everyone. So make sure you and your team know when everyone is signing on and signing off for the day.

Use Virtual Calendars To Communicate Availability

Use an app like Google Calendars to make sure you know when you’re employees are clocking in and out each day. This will make it easier to set meetings and plan daily schedules without conflict.

Make sure your team revises their availability when needed and keeps you up to date of changes.

Use Group Chat To Keep Your Team Motivated & Create Camaraderie

One of the best parts of co-located work environments is workplace camaraderie. You get to celebrate each other’s wins and commiserate over losses. But small interactions like high fives and morning greetings can get lost with remote work.

So, encourage staff to use group chats to say things like “good morning!”, “good job!”, “Happy Friday!” etc.

You can even have a designated chat for fun things like inside jokes, birthday wishes and discussing weekend plans – it’s virtual water cooler talk!

Have Annual, Bi-Annual Or Quarterly Meet-ups In Person

Even if technology can replace our offices, it’s still important to meet in person.

Depending on how large your company is and where it’s employees are, aim to host meetups in person at least once a year.

“After all, if you know the faces, stories, and personalities of those you’re working with, you’re more likely to work more as an interdependent team than as individual parts.” – medium.com

Setting up remote work culture is about replacing the aspects of teamwork that can get lost due to technological restraints. But, as remote teams become more popular, technology will get better at helping us manage them. In the meantime, we hope these tips and tools will help you get started!

If you have questions or would like more information, I’d be happy to help. Please send us an email, and my team will get in touch with you!