In the blink of an eye, the workplace landscape shifted, and teams across the globe found themselves navigating the uncharted waters of remote work. Successfully engaging a remote workforce is no small task, but with the right strategies in place, organizations can ensure their teams stay connected and productive, even while working from home. In this article, we’ll explore some key tips to keep your team connected and engaged during remote work.

1. Encourage Active Communication

One of the most critical factors in keeping remote teams engaged is maintaining open lines of communication. Encourage team members to actively participate in group discussions, ask questions, and share their thoughts. By promoting a supportive environment, teams can better understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, fostering stronger connections and improved collaboration. As an L&D professional aptly puts it, “Without communication, remote work can feel isolating – but with the right tools and approach, it becomes a collaborative and fulfilling experience.”

2. Utilize Video Conferencing Tools

Face-to-face interaction is crucial for building rapport among team members. Video conferencing tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams allow for virtual meetings that offer some of the benefits of in-person collaboration. Encourage team members to use video during meetings to help foster a sense of camaraderie and connection. As one L&D expert says, “Seeing each other’s faces, even on a screen, helps build trust and keeps the team feeling connected.”

3. Schedule Regular Check-ins

Consistent check-ins are essential for remote teams. Managers should schedule regular one-on-one meetings and team meetings to keep employees engaged and informed. These check-ins provide an opportunity to discuss successes, challenges, and goals, ensuring everyone is on the same page and working together effectively. “Regular check-ins are a valuable tool for maintaining a cohesive team dynamic,” shares a seasoned L&D professional. “It’s essential for managers to have a pulse on their team’s well-being and performance.”

4. Promote Work-Life Balance

Remote work can blur the lines between personal and professional life, making it all the more important to prioritize work-life balance. Encourage employees to set boundaries, establish routines, and take breaks when needed. Recognize the importance of mental health and create an environment that supports self-care. A leading L&D expert suggests, “Fostering a healthy work-life balance is crucial for employee engagement and helps prevent burnout.”

5. Seek Support from Learnexus

Learnexus is an invaluable resource for organizations looking to enhance their remote work training and employee engagement initiatives. As a freelancer marketplace for Learning & Development, Learnexus helps managers at companies like yours quickly and easily find and hire freelancers with highly specific skills and experience. Offering a 47% cost saving, Learnexus saves managers time and eliminates procurement issues with a single master services agreement. By leveraging the expertise of Learnexus, organizations can optimize their remote work strategies and keep their teams connected, engaged, and productive.