Remote trainers are becoming more and more prevalent, with the budget cuts and de-centralization of operations. Much has been said about how to manage remote employees – it’s time for a little 4-11 for the actual remote employee!
If you work remote from your supervisor or your team, here are some tips to remember:
1. Communicate. The old adage “out of sight, out of mind” is really true. Keep in touch via email, texting, or whatever other venue is common for your operation. Check in to help people remember that you are there. Offer ideas, share what is working for you, offer to help others. Working remotely requires that you work harder to let people know your capabilities and commitment. The pay-off is that you will create respect and credibility that is important for your career.
2. Be Self-Disciplined. Temptation looms large when no one is watching, even for the most upstanding. Track your time occasionally to make sure you are working at top efficiency. Complete your work on time. Start work on time and go the extra mile. Becoming lackadaisical will hurt you when you least expect it – as in a surprise visit from your boss!
3. Get “Face Time.” While you may take pride that you are not a high maintenance person, you do need face time with your supervisor and other management people in the organization. Use a web-cam to converse when possible. Put your photo in the signature of your email. Get your photo in newsletters – this may require that YOU write the article. Help people who have major influence on your career, and paycheck, remember that you are more than a voice on the phone, or a name on a roster.
4. Motivate Yourself. Remember when people decorated your cubicle for your birthday, dropped a note of appreciation on your desk, or gave you a physical pat on the back? It is important that you take time to feel good about what you are doing, even without people around to recognize your accomplishments. Be creative in motivating yourself. Create a post-it “happy face” and stick it to your computer. Declare aloud, “I did really well on that!.” Take yourself to lunch to celebrate an achievement – even, invite a local friend. Taking time to recognize a good job is essential, even if you do it yourself.
5. Hang with Pros. Remote workers need to be with people who have similar work responsibilities. Seek out associations in your area where you can meet those people, learn new skills and be inspired. For trainers, my first vote is always ASTD (American Society of Training and Development). Other organizations to consider: OD Network (Organizational Development), IACET (International Association for Continuing Education and Training) and Society for Human Resource Development.
Being a remote employee is not the wave of the future. It is our current way of life. We can master the skills that will create stronger operations and greater flexibility in our own lives. The future has arrived – it is ours to claim.
Written in honor of my fabulous friends at the US Forest Service HR Academy in Albuquerque, NM. You know who you are! Inspired by a midnight email from Rita C.
