COVID- 19 has brought some challenges to the way we do business in 2020, which has led to us having to change the way we operate. Some of the challenges include having to manage employees who are working remotely. I hope that these 10 tips will make it easier for you to lead your team through this crisis.

1. Ensure that you have WFH (work from home)/remote working policy and communicate this to employees.
2. Clearly redefine the Key Performance Areas and Indicators with the employees (in writing).
3. Ensure employees have the necessary tools to work remotely.
4. Use technology (mobile apps or other) to support data security/protection, performance management, collaboration and connection between employees, and with the client e.g. tracking work, Zoom, chat rooms etc.
5. Manage output/results. Micro-management can be demotivating and counter-productive. Working remotely does not mean employees are not working. Trust is key.
6. Standards need to be maintained. Discuss expectations with your employee about family interruptions at home, working hours, breaks and communicating with you.
7. Have regular meetings and engage remote working employees by:
   • asking them to present what they have been working on
   • asking them what challenges they experience working remotely or challenges they have with their work
   • give recognition where due
   • share information/updates about the business
8. Review the bigger picture. How will your business change due to having to work remotely? e.g. Culture, Business model, Strategy, Leadership style etc.
9. Working remotely allows the business to meet regulatory Health and Safety directives, be more resilient, flexible and agile. This will hopefully ensure its sustainability during and post the COVID crisis.
10. Take breaks. Rest your brain and body. Everyone needs to have a break from work, even if one works from home.