Strategic ideas to manage a distributed workforce
In the years-long debate over return-to-office mandates versus remote work, a key idea is taking center stage — the distributed workforce. Distributed workforce strategies maximize talent reach and flexibility, but require defined management and collaboration protocols. Read on as we discuss why interest in distributed workforces is growing, offer strategic management tips, and review the benefits of implementing this approach.
What is a distributed workforce?
A distributed workforce exists when a company employs talent who work in multiple locations; in other words, employees aren’t confined to a physical working environment. These workers, whether in a home office or in remote setups, rely on technology for optimal performance.
This working arrangement has gained momentum as a result of:
Research reveals a significant shift in how and where people work: pre-pandemic, only 30% of organizations had distributed workforces, while post-pandemic, an estimated 48% have embraced this model, with more expected to follow.
The difference between a remote and distributed workforce
Keep in mind that while remote work focuses on individual workers’ locations relative to a central workplace, a distributed team is not bound to the same constraints, allowing performance from any environment. In recent years, remote work has surged significantly.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 27% of the nation’s workforce worked remotely at least part of the time in 2022. However, several academic surveys indicate that the actual number might be closer to a staggering 50%. Companies of all sizes are shifting toward distributed workforces to cater to employee preferences, encompass diverse time zones and cultures, and establish local operational footholds.
5 keys to success for a distributed workforce strategy
Here are five things companies must do to ensure success with a distributed workforce strategy.
Pursue individuals who excel in self-management, communication, and adaptability and have a track record of successful remote work or strong self-discipline. Organizations should prioritize assessing communication skills and the ability to collaborate virtually throughout the interview process, while providing clear job descriptions and expectations to attract and retain workers.
Define preferred communication channels, response times, and expectations for employees working remotely. Distributed workforce strategies generally incorporate diverse communication tools — such as Slack or Google Workspace — that are suited for different needs and time zones. By outlining project goals, deadlines, and roles within your team, you can foster transparency. This is key to minimizing misunderstandings and optimizing collaboration.
For seamless teamwork, invest in comprehensive remote collaboration platforms and technology that support your distributed workforce. Choose platforms that offer chat, video conferencing, and file-sharing capabilities and emphasize each solution’s potential for empowering your team. Encourage the consistent use of these platforms for meetings, document sharing, and project updates to ensure every team member feels comfortable using them daily.
A distributed workforce inherently requires more flexible work policies than traditional environments. To develop more agile systems and cultivate trust:
To accurately track the performance of distributed talent and set measurable goals, use OKR (objectives and key results) tools and assess progress transparently. Organizations might also employ performance management software to monitor individual and team achievements and provide timely feedback on milestones or areas of improvement. Regular one-on-one meetings or performance reviews also can be effective to address unique challenges and recognize accomplishments.
Mitigating potential distributed workforce challenges
Distributed workforce setups also present challenges. Here are several common ones and strategies you can use to overcome them.
Key benefits of an effective distributed workforce
A distributed workforce brings diverse benefits, including:
Maximizing the value of your workforce with Employbridge
Distributed workforces offer immense value to teams, but they require effective management to reach their full potential. Employbridge can be your trusted partner by providing comprehensive support to help you successfully build and maintain distributed teams.
We’re committed to bridging skills gaps and empowering a future-ready workforce that promotes business resilience and success. From industry-leading expertise and innovative technology to data-driven insights, Employbridge offers tailored workforce solutions at scale and a powerful, cutting-edge digital platform that provides unmatched speed, access, and control.
Ready to harness the full capabilities of a distributed workforce? Contact us to learn how Employbridge can support your talent needs.
For more information, contact
For more information, contact
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