Whether it’s an extended vacation or a permanent relocation, managers are increasingly managing virtually, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to pulling this off.
Regardless of whether it’s the company’s first virtual manager or 50th, there are countless variables that can effect each situation like the team, the person’s level of management experience, time spent with the company and whether they are a tenured employee or someone who is newly hired.
Since no two company cultures are the same, different practices will work for different companies, but the following five tips can help manage the process:
Practice the role beforehand
In the case that this is an existing manager set to relocate in a couple of months, start practicing by setting up a remote camera from a different office or location once a week. Test out what’s soon to be a permanent situation so that the team can come together and discuss any areas of concern.
Take it a step further and bring along a team member to join you remotely so they understand what the manager’s point of view will be on the other end.
Choose the right technology
Tech capabilities are what make this entire process possible so consider many options and narrow it down. There are many platforms for this, but the three most popular are Skype, FaceTime and Google Hangouts. Before choosing one based solely off popularity, make a list of everything that needs to be done remotely and choose the best match for the specific circumstance.
Choosing the right technology will streamline processes and allow the manager to successfully collaborate, manage and communicate remotely with both their team and upper management.
Set specific deadlines
Focusing on time-specific deadlines is critical when managing virtually. Set task reminders to follow up via a phone call or video chat with the employee to discuss what was accomplished. Always try to have this conversation live rather than via email to be sure all roadblocks are discussed if goals are not met.
Practice concise communication
Rather than an email chain of 20 messages to recap one task, learn and practice communicating concisely and directly. This may mean taking a few business writing courses before the role begins.
Availability
This becomes more prevalent when there are different time zones within one team. Managers need to be a little more flexible when it comes to the hours they can be reached.
Work/life balance becomes a little more unrealistic to obtain and these are all concepts the manager needs to be comfortable with before accepting the position.
At the end of the day, senior management chooses a specific manager to take on this role for a reason. They believe in their abilities and trust their commitment to the company.
Employees should speak up if they don’t think they are right for the role. It will save both the employee and company significantly. ●
