What is important for supervisors when setting expectations for remote teams?

Consistency in communication is essential for supervisors working with remote teams because it fosters clarity and trust. Remote work can create a lack of visibility into employees' daily activities and challenges, making it critical for supervisors to establish clear channels and regular schedules for communication. When supervisors provide consistent updates, guidelines, and feedback, team members remain informed about their tasks, responsibilities, and any changes in expectations.

By promoting a consistent approach to communication, supervisors can help their remote teams stay aligned with organizational goals and reduce the risk of misunderstandings or feelings of isolation. This consistency also sets a standard for accountability, allowing team members to feel secure in their roles and responsibilities.

In contrast, assuming employees know what to do can lead to gaps in understanding and performance since not all team members may have the same access to information. Making changes frequently without clear rationale can create confusion and instability, while avoiding follow-up meetings diminishes opportunities for clarification and support, further exacerbating potential misalignments within the team.