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The pandemic has changed the way we work and made remote working a necessity for many businesses. However, remote workers, especially those who are contractors, often face unique challenges that come with the territory of working outside an office setting.
While there are some downsides to this new normal, there are also several advantages that companies can leverage to support their remote contractors and ensure they remain productive and engaged.
Flexibility
One of the most important aspects of supporting remote contractors is offering flexibility in terms of hours and expectations. Allowing them to work on their own schedule within certain parameters can help them remain productive while still maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, you should be clear about what is expected from them each week or month, so they understand expectations.
Paying on Time
Remote contractors rely on their clients for payment, so both sides must be clear about the terms and conditions of payment from the beginning. Both parties should understand how much is owed, when it is due and in what form the payment will be made.
If this information isn’t agreed upon upfront, there can be delays or misunderstandings which could lead to frustration or conflict further down the road.
Furthermore, having clear processes in place can help streamline payments, ensuring remote contractors get paid promptly so they can pay bills, buy necessities and purchase materials to carry out their work. Therefore, setting up clear expectations about payments from the start ensures a smoother working relationship for everyone involved.
Establish Clear Expectations
The most important thing you can do as an employer is establish clear expectations with your remote contractors. Make sure they understand what is expected of them, when it is due, and who they should reach out to if they need help or clarification and what to do if there is conflict. Additionally, it’s a good idea to regularly check in with them about their progress on projects and tasks. This will help them stay focused and motivated while also showing that you care about their work.
Connection
Even though remote contractors are not physically in an office with other team members, keeping them connected to your company culture is important. This could include setting up weekly check-ins via video calls or having virtual team meetings or happy hours for everyone to stay connected and interact with one another regularly. Additionally, providing access to company news or updates can help keep remote workers connected and informed about what’s happening at the organization.
Tools & Technology
Remote workers need access to the right tools and technology to remain productive and efficient while working from home. Investing in tools such as project management software, file-sharing platforms, video conferencing software, etc., can make it easier for remote workers to collaborate with one another effectively, no matter where they are located.
Additionally, providing access to these tools will enable them to do their job more efficiently without having any technical issues getting in the way of their performance.
Provide Necessary Resources
Your remote contractors will need access to certain resources in order to do their job effectively. Depending on the task at hand, these resources may include software programs, hardware tools, or even office supplies like pens and paper.
Make sure that these items are provided before or shortly after a contractor begins a project for you; this will save them time and money and prevent unnecessary delays in getting work done.
The pandemic has brought about unique challenges for all businesses, especially those that rely on remote workers, such as contractors.
By offering flexibility regarding hours and expectations, keeping everyone connected through virtual meetings or updates, and investing in the right tools & technology for your team members, you can ensure that your remote contractor workforce stays productive and engaged no matter where they may be located.
Support your remote contractors during this challenging time by offering all relevant resources so that they have everything they need at their fingertips!
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