Traditional business metrics often focus with a laser-like intensity on hours worked, but in a flexible environment, this approach kind of misses the point.
In remote settings, focusing solely on time can stifle creativity and undermine employee morale. Instead, we should prioritise outcomes. What results are we achieving? How are we contributing to team goals? By shifting our perspective, we can empower our teams to thrive, regardless of their work hours or where they work.
With a remote workforce, our teams are able to prioritise a work/life balance. People can organise a dentist appointment in the middle of the day without having to take a half-day or full day off (where they won’t be available at all) or they can drop their mum to the airport. Flexibility to organise our lives means that people are also working at odd hours and are available to talk through issues or be available when other countries log-on. Further, flexible working means that people who are primary parents, people who have caring responsibilities and people with disabilities are able to organise their work and home life. These are all people who have something to contribute, but just need to work outside of the traditional 9-5 in the office mandate.
Here are a few strategies for managers:
Set Clear Goals: Define specific, measurable objectives that align with overall team and company goals. This clarity allows team members to understand their contributions and stay motivated.
Foster Open Communication: Encourage regular check-ins and feedback loops. Keep the daily stand-up going, but just virtually. People won’t feel forgotten/invisible if there are regular conversations taking place.
Trust Your Team: Embrace autonomy. When employees feel trusted to manage their own schedules, they often become more engaged and productive.
Celebrate Outcomes: Recognise and reward the achievements of your team. Celebrating successes reinforces a results-oriented culture.
If we champion this work paradigm, we are opening the workspace to a wider more diverse work-force. Let’s champion a mindset that values results over hours. It’s time to foster a more flexible, inclusive, and productive environment for everyone.
RemoteWork #Productivity #Leadership #Flexibility #OutcomeFocused
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