Concerned About Virtual Employees
Managing employees has a lot to do with trust. If you don’t trust people will do their best, then work-at-home is not a good solution for you. Working at home is a great perk to offer employees…for the right employee.
Studies show that employees who sit in the office are using company time for personal use. So whether an employee works at home or at the office you still have to be clear around expectations and deliverables. There is a comfort zone for managers when they see employees as they feel that the employee thinks they are watching.
Where do you want to put your energies when managing employees?
Making sure they are working or working on deliverables with each of them.
If your focus is deliverables then an employee working on home can be managed. On SmartCompany.com I found this post from Eve Ash “Do I Trust My People To Work From Home?” A great question because trust is key to a strong working relationship. The employee is responsible for doing the work and you, their manager, is responsible for setting expectations and goals to direct the person.
Many businesses are considering the option of allowing people to work from home. Whilst it won’t suit every kind of job, advancements in communications technology make it very possible for many tasks and jobs.
Studies now are showing that virtual employees can be quite productive because they are grateful for the quality of life. Don’t negate the program because of one employee. Choose your work at home employees wisely. Have they proven themselves in the office, then they are most likely to continue to perform. Past performance is a good indication of present actions.
Be well,
Pat
