The COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant changes in the workplace, with many companies implementing work from home policies to ensure the safety of their employees. As HR professionals transition to remote work, they must find new ways to operate efficiently and effectively. In this post, we will discuss how HR can succeed working remotely.
Communication Is Key
The first and foremost thing that HR professionals need to do when working remotely is to communicate effectively. As you don’t have the advantage of being face-to-face with your colleagues or employees, it is essential to communicate clearly and promptly using technology. Make use of tools like video and audio conferencing, messaging platforms, and email to stay connected with your team.
With more and more companies working remotely, some HR practitioners have found that it is much easier to communicate with team members who are not in the same location since everyone is equal in the virtual world. Virtual communication also allows HR professionals to reach all members of the team, regardless of where they are located.
Technology
HR professionals need to have the necessary technical skills to work remotely. This includes knowing how to work the necessary software and hardware required to get the job done. HR professionals should be trained in using tools such as online recruitment software, applicant tracking software, HR analytics tools, and other productivity tools such as calendars, to-do lists, and project management software.
Also, HR professionals should ensure that they have a reliable internet connection, a high-quality webcam, and a headset or speakerphone to ensure clear audio.
Culture
It is essential to maintain the company culture and its values, even when working remotely. HR professionals can do this through effective communication, regular virtual team building activities, training and development programs, and clear policies and procedures. Make sure to connect regularly with your team and support them, especially during challenging times.
Performance Management
HR professionals must have a system to track employee performance, even when working remotely. Regular check-ins with employees, setting clear expectations and goals, and using software to monitor progress are essential.
HR professionals should also consider implementing regular performance evaluations, delivering feedback and coaching to support employee development, promote engagement and improve productivity.
Flexibility
Working remotely means that HR professionals have the flexibility to work from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be a great advantage when looking for talent or managing a team that spans across different locations.
Flexible work schedules are becoming more common and can help promote work-life balance. HR professionals should be aware of the varying situations of employees and should create a work environment that can accommodate different work styles and schedules.
Legal Compliance
HR professionals must also ensure that they are remaining compliant with all relevant laws and regulations, even when working remotely. This includes areas such as hiring practices, employee benefits, payroll, and other legal requirements. It’s important that HR professionals stay up to date with any changes and legal issues that may arise due to remote work.
Remote Onboarding and Training
One of the most significant challenges HR professionals face when working remotely is onboarding new team members. HR professionals must ensure that remote onboarding is as effective as in-person onboarding. They must make sure that new employees obtain necessary training and have the necessary tools to be successful in their roles.
Remote work also means remote learning. HR professionals need to ensure that employees have access to the necessary training and development. Online training, webinars, and other online resources can be helpful in providing remote learning opportunities for employees.
While remote work can present some challenges, HR professionals who are prepared for the shift can succeed in managing their teams effectively. With clear communication, effective use of technology, a focus on company culture and values, performance management, and flexibility, HR professionals can manage and support their teams to become successful even when working remotely.
Mental and Emotional Support
Working from home can bring about a host of new challenges related to mental and emotional well-being. HR professionals should prioritize mental and emotional support for their remote teams.
They can provide mental health resources and employee assistance programs, offer guidance on establishing healthy work-life balance, and encourage the team to take care of their mental and emotional health.
HR can also provide resources for team members to stay connected and engaged with the team, such as virtual team building activities, social events or virtual coffee breaks.
Collaboration and Teamwork
HR professionals in remote work must foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration. They can use different platforms such as instant messaging, video conferencing, and virtual workspaces to enable employees to interact and work together.
HR can also provide digital tools for team collaboration, such as project management software, collaboration apps, and video conferencing tools to ensure that processes such as planning, work distribution, and progress tracking are transparent, efficient and effective for remote teams.
Final Thoughts
As remote work continues to expand, HR professionals must adapt to the new reality of working virtually. HR teams should stay actively engaged with employees and managers, encourage feedback, and use technology to build connections.
Effective communication, management practices, training and development, teamwork, mental and emotional support, legal compliance, and company culture are all essential components in ensuring that HR professionals succeed while working remotely. With the right tools and strategies in place, HR can manage employee and cultural challenges that remote work brings and continue to steer their organisation towards success.