Feedback is an essential skill for managers and can be a challenging one to master.
In this discussion, we explore the intriguing realm of performance reviews in a remote work environment. Just as feedback is vital in traditional settings, it holds equal importance in the remote landscape, perhaps even more so due to the potential isolation and the challenges that can arise quickly.
Establish a Clear Methodology
The feedback process is crucial for remote workers, possibly more so than for those working in person. It’s vital to ensure they receive regular and consistent feedback. Simply neglecting feedback or only giving occasional input isn’t sufficient. Evaluating through a variety of channels—such as written comments, verbal conversations, and reviews of work output—can serve as an effective starting point.
Focus on Details
The more data you gather, the better your evaluations will be. At times, it’s essential to rely on others as well: since team members interact with various colleagues, who is best positioned to offer feedback? Finding ways to involve them in your employee’s performance review is key.
Outcome-Oriented Approach
Be explicit about the desired outcomes. In a remote context, what we typically see is the final product. Clearly defining the outputs and the criteria that signify successful work is crucial in any performance discussion, especially when evaluations are conducted remotely.
Consistency is Crucial
Just like traditional environments, providing regular feedback and checkpoints is vital. The pace of remote work often accelerates, so think about implementing monthly or bi-weekly check-ins for team members to assess their progress and contributions. Ensure that you establish multiple touchpoints: formal feedback loops can be quicker and more efficient than their in-person counterparts.
Micro-Monitor, Don’t Micro-Manage
Micro-monitoring plays a key role in the success of virtual teams. With remote staff, it’s important to track their results and outputs rather than attempting to micromanage their daily tasks. Given the distance, micromanagement is often unfeasible. Collaborate with your team to create a schedule for monitoring, reporting on, and discussing key metrics and milestones.
