Keeping Telecommuters on Track

Almost 30 million American workers can do part of their work from their home or remote locations, according to a recent survey performed by the people at International Telework Association. With 1 in 5 workers telecommuting, getting everyone to punch in on the time clock, together for a meeting, or to check-in can be difficut. Fortunately, the employee time clock is one way that you can keep track of telecommuters.

Managing telecommuting technology is tough, but managing the workers can be even tougher. Telework has a habit of amplifying organizational weaknesses and if the company is already weak in the terms of management, then the policy needs to be updated before the teleworking begins. Teleworking can force a manager to sharpen simple managerial skills, not only to streamline the work force but also to make sure the job gets done when it needs to be.

Here are some ways you can create the best environment for teleworkers, and for your company overall:

Implement a great employee time clock system – A solid web-based, employee time clock will help you keep track of your employees, remotely and in-office.

Identify some tasks that are suitable telecommuting - List positions that aren’t good for telecommuting first, as this will be much easier. Then examine what’s left and decide if telecommuting is viable.

Establish ground rules - Make sure every employee is on the same page. Set rules for telecommuters in terms of what needs to be done.

Be prepared to enforce the rules - If a decision comes up to where you need to make a tough call, make sure you can do it.

Practice effective management - Calling regular meetings is a must. Be sure your telecommuters are aware that just because they are not in the office doesn’t mean they are exempt from team meetings.

Provide effective support - Always support your workers. Just as they reach out to you, reach out to them as well.