With many of our people now working remotely, leading a team can be a challenge.
So we asked one of our colleagues, who recently completed a course in Organizational Development, on how one can still be an effective leader during this special time.
Having received a grant from Bounty Agro Ventures, Inc. (BAVI), HR Business Partner Head Myra Guilles has completed a certificate course from the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) and the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P).
Below she shares some practical tips for team leaders, some of which she learned from the course:
Communicate transparently. Provide team members with all the relevant information, as they too must be aware of the situation. Let them be prepared for what is expected and unexpected. Address issues in a manner that is comfortable for your team, making sure that your message is properly conveyed.
Set work boundaries. While working from home, sometimes we tend to work beyond office hours since our time at home is very flexible. For my team, we set a 7pm-7am rule, wherein no work would be entertained unless it is urgent. This gives us time exclusively for our families – and for ourselves, too.
Be present even when distant. Check in on team members from time to time to be on the same page with them. This will set work expectations and help identify solutions on how members can deliver their tasks appropriately.
It is always the output. Giving team members the liberty to execute their tasks empowers them in their decision-making. Just ensure that your instructions are clear, questions are immediately answered, and expectations are properly set.
Recognize their efforts. A delivery of their favorite milk tea or snack is a simple gesture of appreciating their efforts. Appreciating lets them feel valued. It creates a trustworthy and motivating work environment.