Hey all,
I’ve recently taken on a leadership role where I’m managing a fully remote team for the first time. It’s been a challenge, to say the least. Communication feels scattered, productivity is tough to measure, and there’s this constant struggle to keep everyone engaged. What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in managing remote teams, and how did you overcome them? Any tools or strategies you’d recommend?

Hello! First of all, this is a fantastic question – I have been leading remote teams for the last couple of years, so I totally understand what you are going through. One major problem is how to keep everyone communicating effectively and working towards the same goals when they are in different parts of the world and especially in different time zones. Also, another common problem that managers face is how to measure productivity without being a pest and without making people feel stressed. Also, team dynamics tend to go down when people working in the same team do not interact and tend to be alone.

What I found useful is the use of products that de-stress remote working. I would highly suggest using https://www.monitask.com/en/. This is a work and time management application for teams working remotely. It enables one to efficiently take stock of the development of work without overstepping bounds. Also allows to manage expectations and give one's country evidence in good time. There are additional integrated features such as time recording, management of projects, and monitoring of activities which help in quickly pinpointing the challenges and appreciating the milestones reached. Most critical is that, it inspires one to take responsibility and communicate which is very important in digital working environments to nurture trust.

This is such a timely discussion! I’ve been thinking about the same issues as I prepare to take on more remote projects in my organization. I agree with both of you—communication and engagement are tricky to maintain when you don’t have those in-person interactions. It’s interesting how tools like Monitask can bridge that gap. I’d also add that fostering a strong team culture virtually is important. Things like regular virtual coffee chats or team-building activities could be helpful. Looking forward to hearing more ideas from everyone!