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The past few years have been nothing short of challenging. Not only has the pandemic led to uncertainty and unpredictability, but also a whole new way to work. While working remotely has been an option for a long time, it’s now become the norm.

If you’re managing a team, though, this can be difficult, especially if you were on-site in the past. How can you engage and motivate your remote employees, so they’re a productive part of the team? Here are some tips to help you in the process.

How Can You Engage Remote Employees?

Make sure your remote employees have what they need.

Check-in with each team member to ensure they have the setup and resources they need to be successful on the job, whether it’s faster Internet service or a dual monitor for their computer. If they don’t, they’re going to get frustrated and eventually check out.

Host virtual get-togethers and opportunities to socialize.

One of the downsides of remote work is a lack of socialization. Employees who used to work in the office, might miss this. So make time for virtual hangouts that aren’t work-related. Anything from a casual video call to a more structured team-building activity can help to create engagement and social connections. You can also create an online communication or use social collaboration software to help employees feel more connected.

Show your employees you care about and value them.

In the past, when you saw an employee in the office on their birthday, for instance, you’d wish them a happy birthday and perhaps give them a gift, or even have a small party. These gestures shouldn’t go away just because you’re working remotely. Even from a distance, it’s important to show your people that you care.

For instance, send an e-gift card to employees when they celebrate work anniversaries or birthdays. Look for simple ways to thank them for a job well done and recognize them across the whole team during team meetings or casual calls. Make it clear you are always available to them, whether it’s simply to check in or to discuss a concern.

Make mental health and well-being a priority.

Mental health and work-life balance have come to the forefront for many individuals since the start of the pandemic. So make sure you’re on board and offering incentives for employees to take good care of themselves, like gym discounts, a wellness program, financial counseling, and more. When your employees feel good, they can perform at their highest level.

Avoid one-size-fits-all communication.

Get to know your employees individually and how they like to communicate. Then reach out on a one-on-one basis, using whatever mode they prefer. Also, do more than simply check-in, but work toward forging a connection. You’ll build a better remote team when each individual knows you care for them as more than employees but people too.