Remote employees are not inherently disloyal, they simply require a different approach to management. Understanding their unique needs can foster loyalty and productivity. Let's delve into what 'more' they need and how to effectively provide it.
Virtual employees are feeling less committed to their organizations
When relationships are established and maintained purely through technology, employees have an easier time moving on to alternative organizations.
- Organizations are failing to adapt their approach to maintaining organizational culture by failing to create and facilitate emotional, identity-based bonds with virtual employees.
Solutions
Face-to-face onboarding
- Quarterly on-sites
- Familiarity through technology
- Professional familiarity: understanding colleagues’ tendencies, strengths, values, and work-related preferences
- Employ HR-tech that facilitates professional familiarity
- Create an on-site experience that is enjoyable and useful
It pays to think outside of the box
To successfully retain virtual employees will take much more than a competitive salary.
- Organizations that want affective commitment will need to focus on face-to-face onboarding, regular on-sites, and building familiarity through technology. They’ll also need to get creative.
