Mastering Remote Management: Top 10 Tips for New Managers
As organizations increasingly adopt remote and hybrid work models, effective remote management has become a vital skill for leaders at every level. For me, the transition to remote leadership was seamless—I’ve spent years as a seasoned business traveler, accustomed to working from hotel rooms, lobbies, and planes across the globe. The discipline and adaptability I developed in those environments prepared me well for remote work.
However, many leaders face challenges when managing teams remotely, and one thing I’ve noticed is that most leaders don’t teach these essential remote skills to their employees or new managers. To help bridge this gap, I’ve outlined ten key tips to help you thrive as a remote leader.
Below are ten key tips for building remote management skills, each grounded in experience and backed by actionable strategies.
1. Set Clear Priorities the Day Before
Success starts with clarity. One of the best habits you can develop is to identify the two or three key things you need to accomplish for the next workday the afternoon before. By planning ahead, you go into the day with a laser focus, ensuring your time is spent on high-impact tasks rather than distractions.
Example: On Monday afternoon, you might set goals for Tuesday such as finalizing a project proposal, conducting one-on-ones with your direct reports, and reviewing the quarterly budget.
2. Start Early and Get an Easy Win
Starting your day with an easy, distraction-free task helps build momentum. Early wins give you a sense of accomplishment, which propels you into your more complex tasks. It’s a psychological boost that helps you feel in control and productive.
Example: Spend the first 30 minutes of your workday cleaning up your inbox or reviewing an internal document. Once this is done, you’ll feel more prepared to tackle bigger challenges.
Book Recommendation: "Atomic Habits" by James Clear.
3. Tackle Heavy Tasks Early (If You’re a Morning Person)
If mornings are when your energy and focus are at their peak, use that time for your most challenging tasks. Starting with your heaviest cognitive load items allows you to make meaningful progress before distractions creep in.
Example: If you need to strategize on a big project or review a complex report, schedule it first thing in the morning to leverage your sharpest thinking.
Book Recommendation: "Deep Work" by Cal Newport.
4. Communicate Your Availability
In remote work environments, communication is key. Always keep your status up-to-date on platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack. Don’t be shy about letting your team know when you’re focused on deep work and not immediately available.
Example: If you’re working on a presentation for the next two hours, update your status to "Busy" or "In Deep Work" so your team knows not to interrupt you unless it’s urgent.
Book Recommendation: "Radical Candor" by Kim Scott.
5. Set Boundaries for Focus Time
Don’t hesitate to let others know when you’re knee-deep in critical work. Remote managers often face constant pings and messages, which can disrupt their flow. Clearly communicating your availability prevents unnecessary interruptions and fosters respect for focused work time.
Example: Before diving into a large task, set your Slack status to "Do Not Disturb" and communicate this in team channels so everyone knows when you’ll be back online.
6. Create a Distraction-Free Workspace
Setting up a dedicated, distraction-free workspace is crucial. A well-organized, separate work environment allows you to mentally shift into "work mode" and creates a clear boundary between personal life and work responsibilities.
Example: If possible, dedicate a specific room or space in your home to your office. Make sure it’s free of distractions like household chores or family interruptions.
7. Bookend Your Day with Rituals
Consistency breeds success, and having a morning and evening routine will help you maintain focus throughout the day. Start your morning with a ritual that prepares you mentally and physically for the day ahead, and end the day by wrapping up and preparing for the next.
Example: Begin the day with a 10-minute meditation or quick workout to clear your mind. At the end of the day, write down tomorrow’s top three priorities and power down your work devices.
Book Recommendation: "The Miracle Morning" by Hal Elrod.
8. Invest in Quality Technology
In remote settings, how you present yourself through video and audio is a reflection of your professionalism. A good camera and microphone can make a significant difference in how you’re perceived during virtual meetings. It conveys that you take your role seriously and ensures clearer communication.
Example: Use an HD webcam and a noise-canceling microphone for your video meetings. This improves the overall experience for everyone involved and eliminates distractions from poor-quality tech.
Book Recommendation: "The Art of Communicating" by Thich Nhat Hanh.
9. Build a Culture of Accountability
In remote teams, trust and accountability are the glue that keeps everyone aligned. Set clear expectations with your team, focusing on deliverables rather than micromanaging. Encourage team members to take ownership of their work and track progress transparently.
Example: Use project management software like Asana or Trello to assign tasks and track progress. This allows everyone to stay on the same page without constant check-ins.
Book Recommendation: "Drive" by Daniel H. Pink.
10. Focus on Results, Not Hours
Remote work gives flexibility, and as a manager, your focus should shift to results rather than clocking hours. Encourage your team to prioritize quality over quantity and celebrate achievements, no matter when they happen.
Example: Instead of asking how long someone worked on a task, ask what outcomes were achieved. Focusing on outcomes creates a results-driven culture that values productivity and innovation over presenteeism.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to remote management may feel challenging, but with the right habits and mindset, you can lead your team to great success. Implement these tips gradually, and remember that continuous learning is key. Remote management is about balance—balancing communication, accountability, focus, and flexibility. By following these principles, you'll not only boost your effectiveness but also create a positive, results-driven environment for your team.