Remote vs. RTO: 4 Proven Strategies to Boost Team Productivity Anywhere

I recall working in manufacturing in the early 1990s, where I had to be physically present at the plant for extended hours. Every challenge we faced required a physical presence. Technology began to develop, and personally, I was relieved. A few years ago, my father got very sick, and I had to quit my full-time job to take care of him. That opened the door for me to start working 

I was blessed enough to find great leaders with the vision to work with me during that time. Working with them allowed us to develop a highly productive remote work approach. It's been more than 10 years working that way, and I wouldn't change it for anything.

This experience has enhanced my productivity and innovation, refined my communication skills, and underscored the importance of strategizing for each task.

In contrast, numerous companies and organizations have struggled and opted to enforce a "Return-To-Office (RTO)" policy, leading to considerable anxiety among employees. As an industrial engineer with over three decades of experience managing personnel across various sectors, I assert that productivity is significantly influenced by elements beyond an authoritarian "I am the boss" approach.

True productivity stems from recognizing the needs of your team and equipping them with the necessary resources to achieve success.  Here are four tips to enhance team productivity, whether working remotely or transitioning back to the office:

1. Prioritize Communication: Establish clear and open channels of communication where team members feel safe sharing ideas, challenges, and feedback. Regular check-ins, whether through virtual meetings or face-to-face interactions, can help maintain connection and collaboration. Utilize tools that facilitate communication, such as messaging apps, project management software, or video conferencing, to keep everyone on the same page.

2. Learn Your Team’s Needs: Take time to understand the individual needs and preferences of each team member. Conduct one-on-one meetings to gather insights about their working styles, challenges, and personal circumstances. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your approach, supporting each member’s strengths and addressing their weaknesses, ultimately leading to improved overall performance.

3. Foster Trust: Building a culture of trust is essential for productivity. Encourage transparency, accountability, and respect among team members. Recognize and celebrate achievements, both big and small, to boost morale. When team members trust each other and their leaders, they are more likely to collaborate effectively and take initiative in their work.

4. Establish Work Plans and Assess Results: Create clear work plans that outline goals, timelines, and individual responsibilities. Regularly assess the results and progress of these plans, making adjustments as needed based on team feedback and performance metrics. This iterative process will help ensure that the team stays aligned with its objectives, can adapt to changing circumstances, and continuously improve productivity.

By focusing on these key areas, teams can thrive in any work environment, enhancing not only productivity but also overall satisfaction and engagement.