With the outbreak of Covid-19, many companies had to adjust their operations and ask staff to work remotely to curb the spread of the virus. Even though things seem to be looking up, with fewer infections and more people getting vaccinated, working remotely remains an option.

Experts say that remote workers tend to be more productive, engaged, and happy.  But also, companies that offer remote and flexible work options are more attractive to top-talent—assisting businesses to land and retain a competitive workforce.

According to Harvard Business Review, 62 per cent of employees believe working remotely positively impacts engagement, yet only five per cent are likely to stay at their company long-term. It is imperative to engage remote employees with a strategic approach and long-term commitment.

But how do you keep employees engaged while work remotely? Amina Umuhoza, CEO of Saye Ltd, notes that managers should ensure effective communication. Have regular, fun, and interactive video calls by maximising online tools, and so on.

She says that although email and digital chats are great ways to keep in touch, face-to-face communication makes it easier for the team to feel like they’re in the office environment.  With continuous communication, employees can feel that they’re part of the company and are forced to give more time to their assignments and tasks, even with less or no supervision.

Umuhoza adds that employers shouldn’t use remote working as a way to overwhelm workers with assignments, rather, be mindful that they require time off work even when working from home.

"You can check in on employees just to see how they are doing. This shows how caring one is because many people are stressed and many do not care to listen,” Umuhoza says.

Umuhoza explains that as a manager, sharing insights to the business with staff can be of benefit to all for numerous reasons, for instance, staff should be aware of business goals and strategies, as it will put them in a better position to understand what they need to do, and how their input will affect the outcome. 

"Give them updates on how their efforts are pushing the company forward, as this will boost their morale, motivating them to go even further to reach the target,” she adds.

Umuhoza adds that employers should make sure that the team working remotely has the tools to get the job done. For instance, offer them a chance to pursue courses that will boost their skills. Also, give them equipment, like laptops or cell phones and airtime, to make calls or use the internet to be able to do their work effectively.

Experts encourage asking employees for feedback on anything and everything, like how to meet company goals, how to improve customer satisfaction, new training ideas, fun activities to do as a team, and more. But don’t just listen to their ideas and opinions, act on the good ones. Showing appreciation in a simple yet effective way, to really motivate and engage your employees.

Studies show that workers are less motivated by money and are more motivated by the "little things”, like the acknowledgment of their ideas, suggestions, and opportunities to grow, and even more responsibility.

Umuhoza notes that mentorship is one of the most important things managers can do to increase employee engagement for remote employees.

She says that newly hired staff need mentorship more as it nurtures their sense of care and collective connection to the organisation.

They would also feel socially comfortable at the company, increase their skills, and advance their awareness.