As an employer wondering how to monitor remote workers’ productivity, you must put yourself in your workers’ shoes. Consider the following situation.

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You’re right on time. You turn on your work laptop and see a dozen client emails. Halfway through replying, an emergency task comes up. You get right onto it.

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Before you know it, it’s noon, and you realize with dread you haven’t started your time-tracking app. Does your work count?

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Everyone working from home has been in this spot at least once. Does your company have mechanisms in place to ensure your employees’ hard work (as well as slacking) doesn’t go unnoticed?

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Keep reading to learn more about the essential strategies for monitoring your remote workers in a non-invasive yet effective way.

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1. Introduce Clear Targets

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Successful remote workforce management depends on clear and realistic objectives. This involves specifying each employee’s duties and deliverables.

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Depending on the organization of the company, the management should also establish: 

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1. Timeframes

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2. Communication protocols

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3. Performance metrics

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Managers need to make these expectations understandable for all teammates. By doing so, they will also foster an environment where remote workers are committed to achieving the team and individual goals. In other words, they will prevent misunderstandings when it comes to expectations for each role and promote a strong work ethic among remote employees.

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2. Rely on Specialized Tools

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Effective remote work management heavily relies on the right technologies. From time tracking and productivity analytics apps to project management software, there are numerous tools designed to facilitate remote work monitoring.

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Managers need to choose technologies that not only align with organizational objectives but are also accessible and user-friendly for employees. To maximize the benefits of these tools, employers should also provide adequate training and support to employees.

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Insightful is a good example of a productivity monitoring software that has won praise from numerous businesses. Besides offering a time tracking option, this software allows employers to track workers’ activities, screens, and working locations. Based on all this information, Insightful provides reliable and thorough productivity reports.

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3. Maintain Consistent Communication

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Effective communication is the lifeblood of remote team management. Striking the right balance between providing support and allowing independence is key.

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Regular check-ins help managers stay updated on project progress and employee challenges, fostering a supportive atmosphere.

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Employ a variety of communication methods like emails, phone calls, video conferences, and instant messaging. This way you’ll cater to different interaction needs, encouraging a collaborative team dynamic.

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4. Give Constructive Feedback & Recognition

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Feedback and recognition are vital for tracking and maintaining the productivity of your remote teams.

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Constructive feedback helps employees understand their performance and areas for improvement. Make sure you set up regular feedback sessions and provide straightforward input.

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Granting recognition to employees fosters a positive work environment. Make sure you reward the efforts and achievements of each employee to make employees feel valued and motivated to excel. Reinforcing the culture of appreciation and respect in this manner will naturally lead to a company-wide boost in performance.

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5. Promote a Supportive Work Culture

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Develop a supportive work culture that will benefit the employees and facilitate improved monitoring and productivity efforts. To do this, you need to:

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• Establish transparent remote work policies

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• Encourage team spirit and create opportunities for social interaction and bonding

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• Recognize and accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of remote workers

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In short, build a company culture that emphasizes the importance of transparency, team spirit, and a sense of belonging.

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Employees who work in this sort of environment, whether remotely or in the office, are more likely to be productive and engaged. They will nurture trustworthy relationships among themselves and with the company. These efforts will eventually lead to an adaptable and resilient remote team.

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Conclusion

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A successful monitoring of remote workers' productivity lies in balance.

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Aim for clarity when laying out your expectations, rely on robust monitoring software, and provide continuous feedback. At the same time, cultivate a sense of community and effective communication practices.

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Strive to meet organizational goals, but also support and empower your employees.

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Create a thriving remote work environment where the employee is as valued as the project on which they are working. Only then will your monitoring efforts result in a highly productive, satisfied, and committed workforce.

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