For most businesses, it’s pretty common for employees to work remotely. Virtual work helps businesses boost worker productivity while reducing complicacy and discontent. Although there are various benefits to this approach, it likewise comes with distinct challenges.
For starters, because you can’t see remote employees at all times, you might wonder if they’re doing what they’re supposed to. Likewise, regardless of how advanced and secure your technology is, there are instances where face-to-face communication is simply more effective and practical.
Additionally, virtual employees could pose a risk to your network security. With that said, below are some key considerations to help ensure the security of your data and network.
1. Set crystal-clear objectives
Give your remote employees clear duties, goals, and targets. Make certain that they completely understand what you expect from them. It’s also best that you have a separate contract for remote employees that hold them accountable for what they do remotely.
For example, you could state that they should have a high-speed internet connection, a home office, and install an employee-monitoring tool on their home workstations. You should likewise mention meetings in the contract.
For instance, how often remote employees should visit the company office and which kinds of meetings, personal or online, are necessary.
2. Keep all connections secure
Making certain that your data and network remain safe, even when remote employees can access them is immensely vital. Even if you have managed IT support services on your end, ensuring that virtual workers that can access your company network are accessing it from their secure home network could significantly decrease security risks.
With that said, make sure that your virtual employees’ home networks are secure by creating a guide that includes videos or screenshots that will help them secure their personal networks. Also, consider using remote access servers that your employees could remotely access while ensuring network security.
Make sure that you also have a strict security policy in place. Make certain that it’s easy to read and understand to ensure security both remotely and onsite. Include common violations and consequences for committing violations.
3. Give remote employees different communication tools
Communication is extremely vital, more so if you work with remote employees. There are many different communication tools out there, but the needs of one business will vary to another, so make sure to explore all options available to you.
For example, one of the most common and effective remote working communication tools is a project management system. With this, you can keep track of projects, documents, contracts, and log hours, among others, to make it easier on you and your remote workers to stay on top of everything.
In addition, messaging tools such as Facebook Messenger and Skype, for instance, will be very useful for instant communication.
While remote employees could really save you money, you can’t also discount the potential risks they can pose to your security. It is your job then to make certain that you clear security measures in place for your remote workers. If you’re unsure how to start, follow the tips above.