1. Flexibility wins the day
In a time when women are still performing six hours more each day of housework and child care compared to men, flexibility—minus the guilt—is the top job quality that staff are looking for, especially women. Managers who enthusiastically support their staff’s work flexibly have higher retention rates.
2. Feedback: Give it and receive it often and on a regular basis
Regular feedback shows respect and care, strengthens rapport between managers and staff, and boosts confidence. Managers should also ask for feedback from their team. In remote workplaces, tools for check-ins and productivity monitoring are essential to avoid micromanaging.
3. Make it safe to say the hard things
Engaging in difficult conversations is more challenging over webcams; thus, managers need to inspire their team to feel safe expressing truth. This ensures that managers have complete information for decision-making and prevents them from making decisions based on incomplete or secretive knowledge.
4. Talk as openly as possible about money
Discussions about compensation, bonuses, promotions, and career paths should be transparent and free of fear and secrecy. Managers who lead their teams in this manner will attract top talent while maintaining a no-drama culture of respect.
5. Commit to a no-drama culture of respect
Managers must take a zero-tolerance approach towards bullying and intimidation, creating an environment that prioritizes staff well-beought by hiring individuals who align with this culture.
Bonnie Low-Kramen is a TEDx speaker and bestselling author of Staff Matters: People-Focused Solutions for the Ultimate New Workplace. Sophia Young is a committed writer dedicated to sharing compelling stories and vivid descriptions through her words.