Working with a remote team is a great cost-effective way of getting the help you need, without the overheads. But if you want it to work well, you need to know how to effectively manage your remote team – because if you don’t, not only will your team morale suffer, but so will their work.

So if you’re looking for a brief overview of how to effectively manage your own remote team, here’s everything you need to do.

Be clear on your expectations

Set expectations early in the process. Let everyone know exactly what is and isn’t tolerated, how to work most effectively with you, and what you expect from them. Also, share your business mission and focus with your team, as it not only helps them feel part of your business, but it also helps them to see where they fit in.

Respect your remote team’s time

Often, your remote team members don’t just work for you. For many businesses, the outsourcers that are part of their team, are only working with you on a part time basis. So if that’s the case, respect the parameters of your working hours. But also, respect their time when they are working with you. Don’t book unnecessary meetings or make yourself hard to access, if they have any questions or concerns they want to share with you.

Keep your team in the loop

If you want a remote team to work well, you need to keep them in the loop. If you’re planning a launch or looking to expand, share that with them. If you’re looking to change direction, let them know. When you hand over work, let them know all of the necessary information they need, to do the job well. Don’t expect them to get it right, if they don’t have all the information and haven’t been kept in the loop.

Give regular feedback

Effectively manage your remote team by giving them regular group and individual feedback. This doesn’t have to involve meetings and long conversations – sometimes a simple ‘thank you for doing x’ email will do, but let them know you care about them and their part in your business. Giving feedback isn’t just about acknowledging the wins though. Look to also share feedback on how they can improve and grow as an individual too.

Stay in touch with your remote team

If you want to manage your remote team well, you need to stay in touch with them. It not only helps your team feel part of your business, but it also helps them know you’re around if they need you – plus it helps you get over any fears you may have around delegating! So stay in touch. Look to hold regular group video meetings with them, as it helps remind them that they may be working solo, but they’re actually part of a bigger team.

If you’re looking to add an experienced Personal Assistant to your remote team, why not get in touch? Whether you’re looking for general administrative support for your team or want to hire a Personal Assistant to support you in your role, let’s talk! We can discuss the needs of your business and establish whether we’re a good fit together – you’ll find all my contact details, here.