Since the pandemic, remote work options abound. Companies need to offer a certain level of flexibility and remote work options to keep employees happy. However, supervising a virtual finance team can be a daunting task if you’re not familiar with remote management. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with our top four tips to help you regroup, boost productivity, and get your finance team on track, no matter where they’re located.

Embrace the Power of Technology

Before you can offer your team the freedom to work remotely or from home, it’s crucial to have the right technology in place. Here, cloud-based solutions are the key to success, providing your employees with easy access to all the information they need to excel in their roles while keeping the rest of the company up-to-date. Unlike traditional VPNs and on-premise solutions, cloud-based solutions are flexible, easy to administer, and offer seamless collaboration opportunities.

Clear Direction and Expectations

When you’re not physically present with your team, it can be challenging to encourage and ensure effective communication and alignment. To overcome this hurdle, start by outlining clear expectations and goals for each project or task. Put yourself in your team’s shoes and anticipate the questions they might have. Take the time to go through the objectives and address any queries before they dive into their work. By providing reasonable timelines and offering touchpoints throughout the process, you’ll ensure everyone remains on the same page and minimize any potential miscommunication. And at the end of a project or task, check in with your team to see what helped, what worked, and where there’s room for improvement — clear and transparent communication is key!

Schedule Regular Pulse Checks

Working remotely can sometimes make employees feel isolated and disconnected. To prevent this, schedule regular check-in calls with your team members to discuss their projects, daily tasks, and any challenges they may be facing. And don’t forget to take note of what’s happening in their personal lives as well — the more you communicate with each remote team member, the better you’ll understand their workload, strengths, and areas where they may need additional support. These check-ins not only foster a sense of belonging but also provide valuable insights into each team member’s personal progress and well-being.

Embrace Flexibility

One of the greatest advantages of remote work is the ability to work at one’s own pace. As a manager, shift your focus from monitoring hours to evaluating accomplished tasks. This shift in mindset allows your team members to take ownership of their work and manage their personal lives more effectively. By offering flexibility, you empower your team to find their optimal work rhythm, resulting in increased focus and productivity when they’re tackling the tasks that matter most to your company’s success.

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While managing a remote finance team may seem like uncharted territory, it can actually be an incredibly productive and rewarding experience when approached with the right strategies. By leveraging technology, setting clear expectations, scheduling regular check-ins, and embracing flexibility, you’ll unlock the full potential of your finance team, no matter where they’re located. So take the leap, adapt to the changing work landscape, and watch your team thrive in the remote environment!