As employees return to work, there are some best practices in place for both in-office and remote workplaces. Though not all industries or businesses are able to provide remote work options, those that are should consider shifting all available positions capable of working remote to work from home. 83% of the working population believe that a remote work opportunity would make them feel happier at their job.^[1] A remote workplace offers great benefits to both employees and employers, such as:

• Reduced absenteeism
• Lower costs
• Improved health
• Increased productivity
• Higher employee morale and retention

 Per the White House recommendation, businesses should re-open in phases. These phases may differ by state or local governments but should essentially follow a similar pattern.
Phase 1: This primary phase suggests only essential workers should be onsite. Minimizing travel, providing accommodations for vulnerable populations, and workplace safety policies and procedures should be maintained.
Phase 2: The second phase still encourages the practices of Phase 1, but permits non-essential employees to begin returning to the office.
Phase 3: Companies may resume standard business operations. However, continuing implementation of CDC recommendations is highly recommended (i.e., physical distancing, sanitation, limiting travel, etc.).
One similarity between all three phrases is that remote work is encouraged. Managing remote teams can pose strains on productivity, health, and engagement. To promote a healthy, engaged, and compliant remote workforce, here are some tips to follow:
Developing effective communications. Utilize department and company communications to ensure remote employees receive proper notices of policies and procedures, any legal changes, and companywide announcements and information. Applications like Microsoft Teams, Wrike, and Constant Contact can assist you with seamless communications and project management.
Prioritizing health. Working remote can present health risks, so it is important for employers to promote health as a priority. Encouraging team activities, rest breaks, and mental health awareness and resources are great ways to implement healthy habits in the remote workplace.
Ensuring staffing needs are met. Aligning staffing needs with production levels can help alleviate any stressors your employees may be facing. It’s important to note that in these trying times, levels of stress may be elevated beyond normal and employees should be accommodated appropriately for the influx or slow of production demands.
Whether you’re looking for developing or modifying remote work policies and procedures or improving remote work environments, VensureHR’s human resource experts can lend you the support and resources you seek. Please contact VensureHR to learn about our customized HR solutions to streamline your business efficiencies.
 
^[1] 40 Remote Work Stats to Know in 2020