Since the pandemic required companies to switch to remote working, it has become a crucial tool for business operations. However, some employees abuse their remote privileges, affecting the entire team’s productivity and morale.
Given this trend, employers must now actively check in with their remote employees regularly and stop any form of abusive conduct. This will also help identify any issues employees are facing while doing remote work.
But how can employers manage abusive conduct while doing remote work? Down below are some tips to guide you through these situations:
Being proactive and vigilant is key.
Recognise the signs of abuse early on to effectively manage remote work conduct.
It is important that everyone is aware of the signs to determine if abusive conduct is occurring in the first place. Some signs that an employee is abusing their remote work privileges include not responding to calls or emails during work hours for a long time, being late with tasks, and going away without approval.
Have policies in place
Employers must also have a clear policy to indicate what conduct is expected in the remote workplace and what will be done to those who violate it. They must also train their employees on these expectations and have a written document that indicates the employee’s agreement to follow these rules.
However, employers must consider that not all employees have the same remote work environment when making these policies. Ask employees about their situation and try to find compromises.
If anyone violates the policy, have a clear policy for dealing with them. You should speak to them and inform them about their violation and potential punishment.
Use tools to counter abusive conduct
Some employees can be crafty to continue their behavior undetected. To bypass this, employers can use special detection tools that will inform key parties of the violation committed. However, before using these tools, they must be installed on the devices of all employees and must not compromise their privacy. Too much monitoring can lead to distrust and affect productivity.
Open communication
Before you call an employee for a supposed violation, speak with them first. Sometimes, employees may need additional guidance on how certain technologies can be used, so they must catch up. Send them an email beforehand to ask them about their thoughts and provide the necessary support when needed.
Help employees find ways to unwind
Some employees may be acting up because of stress. As their team leader, it is key that these employees are given support to prevent their behaviour from influencing the rest of the team. You can have counsellors on hand to speak to these employees or give them a flexible work schedule so they can manage their work better.
Employers must ensure that their employees are safe in their remote environments and able to complete their work without any trouble. It is essential that they stay aware and spot any signs of abusive conduct to prevent the rest of the team from being affected. By taking small steps to avoid these conducts, you can make a massive difference for your team and the rest of the organisation.
Trying to find your world in remote working? Check out my tips in freelancing and effective working from home here.
