BIZTECH: What are the differences between successful and unsuccessful remote work programs?
Sutton: Companies with the most successful remote work programs make communication a priority for everyone in the company, especially so that employees can communicate what they need during this unprecedented time. We created a quick spreadsheet to help companies do exactly this.
They also give their people the tools and equipment they need to be communicative and productive from home. Whether that’s sending employees specific equipment, such as a second monitor, keyboard, mouse or headset, or giving them a stipend to purchase this equipment on their own, helping each person set up a functional home office is going to be a critical element to their success in the weeks and months ahead.
Finally, they help managers and employees focus on what they can control. So much is out of our control right now. It’s a really good idea to have everyone do a thought exercise where they write down what they can and cannot control, and then communicate this with the appropriate people and teams. This will help everyone focus in the right direction, support each other and keep moving forward.
BIZTECH: Just about every business deploys videoconferencing and instant messaging. What other technologies should they consider to optimize employees’ remote work experience?
Sutton: At Remote.co, we surveyed more than 140 remote teams and companies about their most-used tools and technology. The top tools used by remote teams to make work go smoothly include instant messaging or chat programs, such as Google Chat and Skype; screensharing apps like Google Hangouts; and videoconferencing solutions like Google Hangouts, Skype or Zoom. Document-sharing tools like Google Drive or Dropbox are also popular.
BIZTECH: Are there do’s and don’ts or best practices for using collaboration solutions optimally?
Test different programs with small groups or teams before deciding to deploy a solution companywide, and be clear about which tools should be used for what.