Remote work has been gaining traction over the years, and the recent pandemic has accelerated it further. Companies big and small have shifted their operations online, and with that, managing a remote workforce has become a critical focus. Many companies were of the view that a remote workforce would reduce productivity, but numerous studies have shown otherwise. With remote work, employees have a better work-life balance, and without the rigid structure of an office environment, they can often get more done. However, companies need a system in place to track their team's performance effectively. This guide provides organizations with some insights into how they can track their remote team's performance and make them more productive.

Establish clear expectations with measurable objectives:

Start by setting clear expectations at the start of every project or task. By communicating measurable objectives, it will be easier for your team to know what is expected of them. This will also make it simpler to gauge the performance of every team member, allowing you to determine who needs to improve and who is excelling.

Utilize content management and communication software:

Remote teams thrive on the appropriate software to communicate and collaborate. Many online tools enable teams to share and track work in real time. Make sure that all team members are using the same software, and that they accurately log their progress. This will allow you to check in and monitor their progress on your dashboard.

Have periodic check-ins:

It is easy to lose track of a team's progress, so regular check-ins are necessary. Establish weekly or biweekly meetings, to review the team's progress. Utilize video conferencing and screen sharing to facilitate face-to-face meetings and provide feedback on their performance.

Utilize employee feedback:

Remote work can often be isolating, but it can also offer a unique opportunity to give anonymous feedback. Ask for constructive input from your team and use this knowledge to improve their work performance. This feedback, combined with the data you collect, will help you determine who is meeting expectations and who may require further guidance.

Encourage employee engagement and motivation:

The last thing you want is for your team to disconnect from the work they are doing. Encourage employee engagement and motivation by celebrating milestone achievements and accomplishments regularly. Provide reward and recognition for every excellent work done and motivate them to seek out better results continually. A motivated remote workforce will drive higher productivity and better results.

Tracking the performance of your remote team is essential for your organizational success. Setting clear expectations, utilizing appropriate software and constant check-ins, utilizing employee feedback, and fostering engagement and motivation will help you track and optimize their output. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your remote team is performing at its best, creating a robust and efficient organization.