How to Tell if a Remote Employee Is Struggling

The pandemic has been tough on everyone, and the transition to remote work has been difficult to manage. That’s why it’s important for employers, team leaders, and other leaders to be wary of the warning signs and red flags that an employee is struggling—and to realize that the red flags and warning signs of burnout, change fatigue, and depression have changed as employees have become more decentralized, and in some cases, isolated. Disruptions in patterns of communication are one of the clearest signs that an employee might be struggling. Are they no longer responding to emails in a timely manner or engaging in their team’s Slack channel? Do they turn their camera off in meetings when they would have regularly had it on? It might be time to ask if everything is okay. Some less obvious signs are letting things slip through the cracks, asking the same questions more than once, or displaying a general sense of not getting it. When people are experiencing higher levels of stress than they’re used to, they have a harder time processing and retaining information. This might be a sign that they need support. Finally, when addressing these issues, it’s important to approach from an inquisitive place of compassion rather than one of accusation. “You’re not communicating with the team enough” can add more stress; “I’ve noticed you seem really busy recently. Is there any way I can help?” is far less critical.