In the remote work environment where commuting is history and flexibility reigns, leaders face the unique challenge of maintaining visibility and proving their leadership without the benefit of regular, traditional face-to-face interactions. Here’s how you can shine as a leader (whether you have the title or not) from afar.
1. Master Your Messaging
Communicate with Intention. Regular touchpoints via email, instant messaging, and video calls can bridge the distance. Be brief and purposeful to prevent any confusion. But remember, rapport is built in the lighter moments—don’t shy away from the occasional non-work chitchat.
Embrace Video. In the absence of physical presence, video is your strongest ally. Use it to convey your message with the added depth of visual and vocal cues. Video allows you to connect more deeply and emotionally with your people. Before engaging in any important communications, ask yourself if video is the right vehicle. Consider creating video weekly or monthly updates.
Leverage Collaboration Tools. Tools like Slack and Asana are your digital workspace. Know them inside out and communicate with intent, replacing the nuances lost when communicating with the 26 letters of the alphabet. Also, use these tools to host some of the more informal interactions normally part of the in-person environment.
2. Maximize Meetings
Whether you’re leading or attending, virtual meetings are your stage. Command attention, drive the agenda, and demonstrate your leadership acumen. Meetings have always been the best place to demonstrate your leadership and build your personal brand. When it comes to virtual meetings, up your game. Know how to captivate online, keeping participants engaged.
3. Humanize The Digital Divide
Acknowledge and Appreciate. Recognition goes a long way. According to Great Place to Work, 37% of employees value acknowledgement above all. Be the leader who celebrates every win, and do it publicly. Everyone likes to be lauded in the presence of their peers.
Be Doubly Human. Authentic leaders foster connection. In a world where disconnection is prevalent, your genuine engagement can rekindle team spirit. Deliberately inject humanity into your interactions with your people. With team cohesion waning and tech taking over the workplace, focus on humanity.
Reserve time for meaningful chats. Set aside dedicated hours for engaging in non-work related activities. Understanding and supporting team members’ unique circumstances can alleviate the isolation of remote work.
4. Champion Growth And Strengthen The Team
Lead the charge in virtual team-building activities. Shared experiences can forge stronger bonds and spotlight you as a visionary leader. A shared learning experience, for instance, can build team cohesion. Promote continuous learning and personal development. Share your expertise and encourage your team to grow with you. Sponsor team development that focuses on social skills to help everyone get to know each other better.
5. Optimize Face-to-Face Opportunities
The rarity of in-person interactions makes them invaluable. Use these occasions for meaningful engagements and to foster genuine relationships. When you have the opportunity for in-person team gatherings, prioritize group activities to foster human connections.
6. Be A Thought Leader
By being visible on social media platforms, or on stage at conferences, you become visible to your team and colleagues. Remember to connect with your team members in all relevant social media platforms. Collaborate with colleagues to produce valuable thought-leadership content that you can share with internal and external stakeholders.
7. Lead by Example
Show how disciplined remote work looks. Your example sets a precedent for your team’s work habits. When it comes to delegation, make sure the team knows that it’s not just about offloading tasks; it’s about instilling confidence and nurturing decision-making abilities.
As a remote leader or future remote leader, cultivating these seven interconnected skills is essential. They not only position you as an effective leader but also as an inspiring one, who leads with heart and transparency, inspiring a team that’s connected, engaged, and collectively pursuing the team mission.
Source: Forbes,
Author: William Arruda