Bosses urged to stay in touch with home workers

Managers are being urged to make more effort to stay in contact with employees working remotely as the number of home workers continues to grow. Flexible workspace specialists Regus believes the solution to productivity concerns is a more open and regular channel of communication between workers.

84% of professionals agree that managers should speak with remote workers several times a week, and while phone calls are the most immediate way to make contact, it’s not always the most informative or regularly convenient. More than half think bosses should check in via video chat at least once a week, while nearly three quarters admitted that workers should be available through direct messaging service rather than email to ensure they can respond quicker.

Highlighting the importance of face-to-face discussion, 84% of respondents believe remote staff should be required to attend monthly meetings with managers if they’re expected to spend too much time out of the office. As many firms are embracing remote working opportunities for employees, Regus wants to remind managers that maintaining supervision outside of the office could help boost efficiency and reduce the risk of distracted workers.

“The challenge for business leaders is to establish reporting and measurement strategies to effectively manage this dispersed workforce,” said Richard Morris, UK CEO of Regus. “Regular assessment of tools and techniques is essential in order to take advantage of developing technologies and to ensure that employees continue to feel supported and engaged.

“Striking the right balance will deliver immediate benefits to both parties – and to business bottom-lines.”