Expert Tips for Managing a Field Based Team

It's one thing to manage a team of office workers in an open space. They can be seen at any time, and it's not hard to know when they arrive or when they leave. If there are any issues, you only need to walk a few paces in order to chat and sort things out.

When your team works remotely, however, it can be a very different thing. You can't see them, and you don't always know what they're doing. It can be hard to build relationships and to communicate at a meaningful level. More and more people are working this way thanks to the global pandemic, but the trend is not set to majorly reverse in the future. This article will give you some key tips for managing people who are field-based.

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Use Smart Software

Modern technology is changing everything for businesses. More and more companies are moving their data online and storing it in the cloud. The term 'smart office' is being increasingly used, too. It means that a lot of a company's information can be accessed and worked on, by using special apps on smartphones.

Documents can be created, edited, and stored by the user, wherever they are. This has great implications for remote working. It's possible to see from this free job sheet app that such technology can be used on IOS or Android smartphones. Field workers can now view their allocated jobs and access directions. They can complete checklists as they go, and even get customers to sign when the work has been completed. In turn, the manager can have a greater understanding of where the employee is, and what they are doing.

Value Face To Face Contact

Try to build relationships and rapport with your staff. Rather than only texting a worker, use video calls as well. They can be achieved using Facetime, Zoom, or other similar phone applications. If you are both discussing a third member of staff, bring them into the call so that the communication can be inclusive.

It's best when field workers physically meet their boss at least once a week for a catch up. If they come to your office it can be a good place for two-way discussion. You can find out how they're doing and if there are any outstanding issues. Perhaps the company van is playing up, or some equipment needs replacing.

From time to time it may also be practical for you to make a personal visit to their current work location. Make sure it's a convenient time and don't let them feel like you're checking up on them.

Host Different Events

They could be anything from a weekly feedback meeting to an annual review. Why not have some team-building exercises, or conduct some refresher training for everyone? Even taking an employee out for a drink can help build relationships the right way. Remember, they are humans before they are the staff. Show interest in their families, hobbies, and holidays. At Christmas, why not give out turkeys and bottles of wine to build morale? The company could also consider paying for a team Christmas lunch. It would be a great reason to get everyone together.

Respect Their Time

Decide what's most important: their working hours or what they achieve. If they've done everything an hour before close of play, consider letting them go home early. If staff feel you trust them, they should respond with integrity.

Don't ring them about non-urgent pieces of admin if you know they will be busy up a ladder at that moment. If they've finished for the day, don't ring them up simply because you're still working.

Prioritize The Onboarding And Development Process

Right from the moment you employ someone, let them know who you are and what your company's values are. Create induction courses that cover such issues as health and safety, accountability, and integrity. Get them to know everyone as early as possible, including the payroll staff.

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In order for employees to have a sense of purpose, it's important to build progression into their working roles. This could include the possibility of promotion or a higher salary.

Don't hold back on the recognition process, either. If there is a team Whatsapp group, why not praise an individual who has done well, or got promoted? Such schemes as Employee of the Month can also help people feel valued.

When a remote team is managed well, they will feel appreciated rather than isolated. In turn, they will help your business be a success. As a result, both the employees and the business itself will grow and become stable in the long run.