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Communication and Flexibility Are Preferable to Micromanaging in Remote Workplaces

Published Tue Feb 22 2022

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As remote work becomes more popular, managers are having a difficult time keeping track of their employees’ productivity. Some have responded by implementing tracking software to keep an eye on their team members, but the results of such actions have been mixed at best. Employees do not respond well to having virtual eyes looking over their shoulders, and productivity ends up being negatively impacted. Instead of micromanaging team members, reconsider how their work is structured. When you’re in asynchronous work environments, communication becomes critical. Set up simple structures for checking in on projects to stave off the desire to constantly check in or watch what your employees are doing every day. Accountability is important in the workplace, but you don’t want to demand it without clearly defined strategies in place. As part of this process, small, achievable milestones should be set and frequently updated. By setting expectations in advance, your managerial influence won’t feel overbearing or stifling. Give your team the space to experiment, and judge their efforts based on outcomes rather than time spent glued to a screen.

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