7 Effective Strategies to Engage Remote Workers Successfully
- Arvios
- November 14, 2023
- 4 min read

In our ever-evolving work landscape, employers are increasingly considering the future of their workplace structures. It is undeniable that remote work has gained immense popularity, with companies realizing the importance of establishing conducive home office environments for their employees.
Over the past couple of years, remote workers have become more proficient in their roles. They have developed a deeper understanding of security measures, owing to both company initiatives and heightened awareness of security’s significance. To address home office challenges, they have taken measures to enhance internet connectivity and refine remote work habits to maximize productivity. Furthermore, they have improved their ability to manage aspects like work-life balance and overall well-being.
Nonetheless, some employees may still opt for office-based work to address certain aspects of their roles. Therefore, organizations should continue to offer on-site work as an alternative.
A Shift in Mindset
Many individuals are gravitating toward hybrid setups and fully remote work. This shift allows employees to escape crowded cities in favor of more affordable and comfortable living arrangements outside bustling business districts. It also frees up time that would otherwise be spent commuting, granting them more quality time for personal and family activities. For those who prefer remote work, this transition fosters a better work-life balance, providing more time and energy for activities they previously had limited access to.
In a survey conducted by global firm McKinsey, 58% of American employees, spanning various industries, reported having the opportunity to work from home at least once a week. An astonishing 65% of employed respondents expressed their willingness to go fully remote, if possible. Additionally, a separate survey by Buffer in 2021 revealed that 82% of responding companies successfully transitioned to remote work.
In the aforementioned McKinsey survey, 87% of respondents expressed their readiness to embrace flexible or hybrid work arrangements when available. Each company should weigh the pros and cons of remote work’s impact on its specific processes. For instance, industries dealing with highly sensitive information and physical work, such as manufacturing and logistics, may not find full-time remote work suitable.
However, it is essential to discard the outdated notion that an employee’s productivity is determined by being physically tethered to a desk and continuously typing away. Our reluctance to embrace the inevitable shift to full-time remote arrangements hinders our progress. Fortunately, numerous productivity tools and dashboards are readily accessible for tracking productivity and outputs.
Redefining Employee Engagement
Much like how we adapt to changing industry and customer demands, employers must stay attuned to the evolving employment landscape to enhance employee retention and attract the right talent.
Engagement can be viewed through various lenses. Company-wide initiatives such as webinars, contests, and surveys provide effective means to regulate and assess employee engagement. Additionally, personalizing engagement through improved benefits packages and making employees feel valued can yield positive results.
Here are seven ways to enhance employee engagement for remote workers.
Empower Employee Voice
Companies that prioritize fairness and equality understand the importance of listening to their employees, just as they listen to customers. Surveys and social listening tools help companies gauge employees’ needs and preferences, making them feel valued and heard.
Foster Personal Connections
Leaders should establish personal connections with their teams, emphasizing open communication. Checking in on employees’ well-being, both personally and professionally, humanizes leaders and fosters a comfortable working environment.
Show Appreciation
While top performers often receive recognition, every employee contributes to the company’s success. Acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of virtual employees to convey their value within the organization.
Embrace Flexibility
Compassion and empathy are essential as we navigate a world filled with health guidelines and unexpected challenges. Flexibility, in various forms, demonstrates support for employees’ well-being and loyalty.
Provide Necessary Tools
Evaluate the tools required for employee success, encompassing development opportunities, appropriate compensation, access to health and wellness activities, and guidance for virtual employees to excel.
Empower Remote Workers
Empowered employees, whether in the office or remote, harness provided tools effectively, fostering creativity and accountability. Trust and support inspire confidence and motivation.
Foster a Sense of Community
In the realm of remote work, creating opportunities for personal relationships and connection is vital. Beyond structured meetings, virtual communities, team-building activities, and casual hangouts nurture relationships among remote employees.
As we continue adapting to changing work dynamics, prioritizing employee engagement remains pivotal in ensuring a thriving workforce.