Approximately 71 percent of remote workers say they’re happy in their jobs. However, only 55 percent of on-site workers can say the same.
Do you want your team members to feel more fulfilled and satisfied while working from home? If so, you need to step up your remote team management skills to create a better remote work culture. Read on for some do’s and don’ts to help you make this happen.
Remote Work Culture Hardships from 2021
In 2020, the number of Americans working from home doubled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many teams also continued working remotely in 2021 and will keep it up in the new year.
Even though a lot of people got used to working from home last year, many teams have still struggled with establishing a positive remote culture. The following are some of the most noteworthy challenges they faced (and may still be facing).
Unclear company values
Gallup data shows that less than half of employees strongly agree that they know what their employer stands for and what makes it different from other companies.
This is a particularly common challenge for remote employees — especially those who have never worked in the office with other members of your team. After all, they haven’t had a chance to experience the company culture firsthand.
Limited communication
When everyone on the team works remotely, communication can be tricky. You can’t just walk over to someone’s desk to ask a question or call them into your office for a quick chat.
Instead, a lot of managers are left relying on inefficient communication methods like email. This can lead to misunderstandings and other issues that get in the way of building a positive company culture.
Unclear expectations
When people don’t understand what’s expected of them, it’s harder for them to feel comfortable and supported at work. They may become frustrated and less attached to the job overall, too, which can cause them to be less engaged and less productive.
Limited team-building opportunities
There are plenty of positives that come with remote work, but one of the biggest disadvantages is a lack of opportunity for in person team social events.
When people are spread out and unable to gather in person, it can be harder to foster strong relationships. This, in turn, gets in the way of positive communication and teamwork, especially when tackling difficult projects.
Insufficient online tools
Inadequate software and an overwhelming use of online tools can make communication challenges even harder for remote teams. If all you and your team have is email or a basic chat tool, it’s going to be difficult for you to address challenges, answer questions, provide feedback, or give kudos when someone deserves it!
How to Create a Better Remote Work Culture in 2022
There are plenty of obstacles that come with working remotely and creating a positive team culture. Fortunately, though, there are also steps you can take to combat the issues listed above.
If you’ve been wondering how to build a remote work culture that is good for everyone on your team, here are some tips to implement today.
Communicate company values
Make your company values clear for everyone on your team. As soon as you virtually onboard new employees, make sure they know what your company stands for — or, even better, list your company’s values in the job ad so people know what you value before they even apply.
Remind your team about the company’s values regularly, too. Be sure to tie them back into project guidelines and requirements whenever you can as well.
Schedule regular check-ins
The truth is, you have to work harder to stay in touch when everyone works remotely. However, it’s possible (and 100 percent worth it) with some careful planning.
One of the easiest ways to combat communication obstacles and improve remote work culture is to schedule regular virtual check-ins with your team. This includes both team check-ins and individual, 1:1 check-ins.
Set clear expectations
During your weekly team reviews and 1:1 check-ins, set clear expectations. Outline verbally and in writing what you expect from your team when it comes to things like completing assignments and communicating with you or one another — e.g., which tools they should use.
Host virtual team-building activities
You might not be able to get together with your team in person as regularly as co-located teams are able to. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still build stronger relationships between team members.
Virtual team-building activities like trivia nights and video happy hours are great for helping team members to relax, decompress, and start fostering friendships. The closer they feel, the easier it’ll be for them to work together. Not only this, but making the extra effort will prove to your team how much you care. Check out our recent interview with a team building expert to learn more about why we need remote team building.
Invest in the right tools
Finally, make sure you’re investing in and using the right tools. When you and your team use a good remote work software, it’s much easier to overcome all the culture-related obstacles discussed in this guide.
From task challenges to unclear expectations, the best technology allows you to avoid all kinds of issues and set your remote team up for long-term success in no time.
Start Creating a Better Remote Work Environment Today
When it comes to building a positive and supportive remote work culture, team connection and communication are essential.
It’s okay if you’ve struggled to maintain your company culture in the last couple of years. It’s also never too late to turn things around. Remember, the internet is a playground full of tools and information to help everyone stay in touch and build strong relationships.
For example, Weekdone Team Compass is an internet-based remote workspace that managers and employees alike can use to stay connected.
From weekly check-ins and 1:1s to straightforward status reporting, Team Compass offers everything you need to create an awesome remote team culture in 2022.
Learn how Team Compass can help your team succeed. Our premium features are designed for all teams in mind: in-person, remote, hybrid, or distributed. Try it for free!
Our software is absolutely FREE for teams of 3 or less. Larger teams (4 + with unlimited user/team invites) use Team Compass and all its features for just $29 per month with a free 2-week trial.