Unfortunately, many remote employees feel like their bosses employ an “out of sight, out of mind” policy, at least until a remote worker makes a mistake. Overcoming the challenges of distance and showing your remote employees your thankfulness for their tireless work takes creative effort. To accomplish this, read these ways to show your remote workers you appreciate them.
Go Public With Praise
It’s tempting for someone working from home to feel like coworkers won’t notice their work. To address this, be loud about your praise. If you have a video conference call with administration, don’t be shy about dropping their name and mentioning how they did an exceptional job on a project. Be liberal with your emails—praise a job well done every week, if you can. There’s great power in showing your appreciation, especially when you can draw attention to a remote worker who isn’t physically present.
Make a Personal (Maybe Tangible) Gesture
Just because a remote worker isn’t in the office doesn’t mean you can’t have a proper office relationship. Strive to get to know those working from home personally, including their interests, background, and especially what motivates them. This will not only help you understand their decisions from afar but will also help them feel known. As they grow, acknowledge their growth and progression towards their goals.
Also, consider sending them tangible gifts to make their work with your company more concrete and appreciated. Sending them a shipment of gourmet meals or writing a handwritten letter are ways to show remote employees your appreciation and your willingness to go the extra mile.
Build a Community Creatively
With technological advances, you can connect with far-away workers better than ever. Show them you’re grateful for them by taking pains to establish online communities for them. To celebrate them, hold a virtual game contest using an online party game platform, and do it on company time. Creating and encouraging a responsive and fun work chat helps remote workers feel more welcome and included in the day-to-day company workings.
