While remote work has become essential for businesses to stay operational during the COVID-19 pandemic, it requires flexibility. Managing remote employees means finding new ways to keep everyone connected and engaged across different locations. Here's how you can use cloud phone systems and regular video meetings to your team's advantage.

How to Stay Connected to Employees Who Telecommute

1. Check-In Regularly

It is easy to lose track of employees who are not directly in front of you. Make sure to check in each day with your remote team, either by phone, email, text, or chat. This approach keeps communication open and ensures that team members don’t feel forgotten because they are not onsite. It also guarantees that they feel confident in reaching out to you if they need help.

3. Hold Online Chats

There are plenty of apps and online chat systems that keep people connected virtually throughout the day. Zoom® and 3CX WebMeeting® meetings are great for face-to-face chats from any location, while apps like Slack and 3CX Mobile can be set up with channels for different areas of the business. There can even be a chat specifically set aside for socializing in between work-related topics and file sharing. 

4. Use the Cloud

Engaging with remote employees is vital, but so is ensuring they have the necessary tools to work from their location at all times. Set up a cloud phone system to make reaching out to coworkers, vendors, and clients easier. Having cloud and shared drives helps employees gather the necessary data without having to scour their desk tops or ask teammates to transfer them.

5. Provide Feedback

Offer feedback to telecommuters frequently. Not only does this boost communication and make them feel like part of the team, but it also lets them know how they are doing and what is expected of them daily. Implement schedules, discuss meeting feedback, and encourage them to reach out if they need assistance. 

If you have remote workers and are looking to set up cloud phone systems and other telecommunications equipment, contact ACC Telecom. Located in Columbia, MD, the Better Business Bureau accredited company offers everything from business phone systems to security cameras for your company. Their personalized customer care ensures you have the same representative for all of your needs at all times. Call (410) 995-0101 to get started or visit them online for support.