This is why virtual office spaces are on the rise too. Some businesses have gone fully remote, using the likes of PhysicalAddress for a prestigious business address and mail service.
Nevertheless, it presents a new challenge for businesses with regards to managing these individuals. If you are looking to employ a remote worker for the first time or already have freelancers on your team, then here is some stellar advice and top tips for managing them effectively…
Maintain effective communication
In everyday business life, communication is one of the core qualities needed for success. Without it, there is no way you would be able to operate efficiently. This is no different when it comes to the relationship with your remote workers either. Make sure you communicate clearly and frequently. The best way to have good communication in a remote environment is to use instant messaging. Software applications, such as Skype, allow individuals to converse imminently and thus problems can be solved in a matter of no time.
Give frequent feedback
You still need to motivate your remote workers as you would with those you see every day. In fact, this is even more important because it is a lot easier for freelancers to feel discouraged. Feedback is thus integral. If they have done a great job, then let them know. They will feel encouraged and secure in their position. If they haven’t performed as well as expected then make sure you tell them too. This will ensure they work even harder on their next assignment and it nips the problem in the bud before it has the potential to get any worse.
Treat your freelancers fairly
Unfortunately, it is common practice for remote workers to be overworked and underpaid. A lot of employers grow to expect their freelancer to be available 24 / 7. Yet this is wholly unfair. Furthermore, if you take a look on the internet then you will be met with a wealth of listings and job postings expecting freelancers to work for mere peanuts. If you want quality then this is not the way to go. You will only end up with more hassle in the long run when the work produced is not up to standard. If you treat your freelancer fairly then you can build a strong relationship and ensure work for many years to come. Remember, it is a lot easier for a remote worker to leave their job position than it is for other employees. After all, they merely need to construct an email (and some may not even bother to do that if you have treated them unfairly).
Provide clear instructions
And last but not least, you need to make sure the instructions you provide are clear. Offer as much information as possible yet ensure it is written in a concise manner. For instance, if you are hiring somebody to write a press release for your company you will need to include the following; topic, word count, deadline, purpose, and anything else which will give the individual a sense of direction. Quite often mistakes are made and time is wasted because the person providing the instructions hasn’t formed their email or IM properly.