When everyone is spread out, your technology and tools are the only way to stay connected. Employees may not have quality internet or computers at home. They won’t be able to connect with their team or tools, instead spending their time fighting with their technology. Slow computers, limited software access, and a lack of tools can quickly tank your team’s momentum.
In an office setting, everyone can pop in and out of work spaces as needed to talk and strategize about their projects. Remote teams don’t have that option. Without the right tools, your employees may feel cut off from the rest of the team. This can cause dissatisfaction, frustration, and feelings of isolation, which can effect productivity.
If employees aren’t effectively communicating with everyone, it can also create problems for your projects. Important information may not make it to the right people, delaying deliverables. Plus, since team members can’t see what is happening in the background for everyone else, small miscommunications can develop into major conflicts.
Typically, managers can get a good feel for employee performance by keeping an eye on the team from their desks or office. As a remote team manager, you don’t have that option. You may worry that your employees aren’t spending enough time on their work. Employees, on the other hand, may struggle with the new set-up and feel that you aren’t paying enough attention to their needs.