Helping America’s companies adjust to remote workforces

As we’ve mentioned before, technology companies already have an innate advantage when it comes to remote, or distributed, workforces. Our work, by nature, is often less confined by an actual physical space, leading to endless possibilities for innovation that truly can happen at any place and at any time. This potential is not limited to the technology sector alone. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues across the world, the world’s largest companies are being asked to do their part in keeping workers home — but many have never attempted this before.

We’ve all heard of the incredible advancements made by Sir Isaac Newton during what was, at the time, a 17th century version of “social distancing.” The question now is how to equip our workforces in a way that will empower employees so that when we look back at this time, we can all be amazed at the advancements that arose from this and the corporations that rose to the top. It all comes down to just a few things:

Invest in your people by making sure they have the right tools to do their jobs.

It may seem obvious, but ensuring that employees have the tools they need to do their jobs is essential. This might mean investing in virtual/digital whiteboard equipment for team members, Wifi access, video conferencing software or even something as simple as basic office supplies.

Identify your priorities.

During this time especially, employees need to hear clear and direct communication from their leaders. As a leader, it is important to not only remain accessible and flexible — remember, everyone is adjusting to this new normal — and it is your job to, “keep the main thing the main thing.” By working with your employees to prioritize projects, rather than act as if everything is a “fire drill,” you can ensure that their time is used efficiently, thereby allowing for greater opportunity for innovation and new discoveries.

Lead your people with compassion and understanding

Anxiety about health and the economy is at an all-time high. Employees are looking for genuine leadership during this time. Schedule check-ins, work to boost morale and let them know you are here for them personally and to help them get the job done. This is a time to pull together as a nation and requires strong leadership in every sector.

Innovate in order to be prepared for the end of the pandemic

We are in a new era of unknowns. But there will come a day (hopefully soon) when the pandemic is over and life as we know it will resume. What are you doing to prepare and innovate in a way that puts your company ahead of the competition when that day comes. In other words, don’t just live in the here and now — prepare to rise and prepare to win in business.

Dialexa has been helping Fortune 500 companies do this for more than a decade and we know that now is actually the time for true innovation.