Even before 2020, a lot of the millennial generation was looking for more flexible careers where they could work from anywhere with an internet connection and become a digital nomad. WFH (Work From Home) is becoming more popular as a means of cutting costs and boosting company morale, although this is a more temporary solution amid the pandemic. A more permanent WFH solution is remote or having remote members in satellite offices. Qualified individuals can become remote full-time employees or, on the other hand, freelancers or contractors can become full-time virtual employees. The world is your oyster when selecting the best, most experienced professionals in your industry when you hire remotely.
A qualified candidate for someone who is working remotely is someone who is a self-starter, has time management skills, and proactively communicates with others. Remote work is a skill as it takes someone who can balance their work and home lifestyles, as well as dedicate themselves to the business. Upon initial hire, the new team member should familiarize themselves with the company's culture and core values. Utilize standard onboarding documentation that you use for all employees.
A remote employee might help your company develop its technology stack as you will most likely utilize technology better as a result. Companies proficient in remote work usually have a cloud system, use instant messaging and video chats, project management software, as well as time trackers and customer relationship management tools. There is usually a VPN network that the remote worker can sign on with a password to access the company folders where they can save their files.
Overall have a culture of transparency, where you have a weekly stand-up project meeting to keep everyone accountable for the work in-house. Set out clear responsibilities and communicate in a group chat, a Google Doc, or in your project management system for all questions and ongoing coordination. Also, make sure to set aside time for team building activities, even if they are via a virtual video call. Once a year, the company can also have a retreat where everyone works one day and has a team social event next, resulting in happier employees.
