The multi-generational work from home experience

Ensuring employees are productive as they work from home

By: Althea Kalalo, Editorial Associate

People across the world are now experiencing a ‘Work-From-Home Experiment’ due to the novel coronavirus. Countless companies, both big and small, have been forced to work remotely to avoid further spread of the virus. This necessary shift, combined with the stress of dealing with a global pandemic, can leave employees feeling unproductive and unmotivated. 

Although there isn’t one universal way of motivating employees, there are steps that can boost a company’s productivity and keep it thriving. How can companies step up to the challenge of keeping their employees motivated as they work remotely, especially in today’s multi-generational workforce?

It starts with acknowledging that certain factors have affected how each generation connects with the world around them, and how they perceive work. One study details how most Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) prefer printed materials and face-to-face conversations. They may be less tech-savvy than other generations, and are motivated by personal development at work. Those from Generation X (born 1965-1980) are seen as self-sufficient workers who value learning and growth at work. 

Millennials (born 1981-1996) are resilient and focus on the greater good, but may have shorter attention spans than those in generations before them. Workers from Generation Z (born 1997-2012) can consume information faster than previous generations, and are driven by work security and good benefits.

This illustrates some differences among generations, and highlights the need for companies to be creative in motivating and engaging with their employees. To help companies do this in today’s virtual offices, here are five tips to make sure that their multi-generational workforce stays engaged and dynamic, even from home:

Be patient with online adjustments. Not everyone will immediately know how to shift to working remotely, especially when it comes to having virtual meetings and online events. Similarly, not everyone will be comfortable relying purely on technology when it comes to presentations and team huddles. Be patient while employees get used to the necessary digital tools. Having quick tutorials for those who aren’t as adept in using technology can also be beneficial.

Maintain workplace practices. Working from home doesn’t mean workplace practices should stop. To maintain productivity and to get in the right headspace for work, companies should help employees plan out their day. This means encouraging them to dress up for work and giving their schedules structure — be it through morning check-ins or a quick huddle at the end of the day. This will help employees get into the right mindset and gradually get them accustomed to working from home. It’s also important to have breaks in between work schedules, like the usual hour for lunch or a 15 minute afternoon break. Having this kind of discipline will make the transition from their work life to their personal life easier.

Have versatile ways of communication. Companies must reach out to their employees in ways they will recognize, which means having different means of communication. Employees who prefer face-to-face conversations may have an easier time collaborating through video calls. Similarly, employees who prefer snackable content may find that emails and instant messages work better for them. Effective communication will help employees work as seamlessly and efficiently as possible.

Give importance to work-life balance. While working remotely, it’s important that employees have a designated workspace that is both conducive for working and separate from their personal space. This helps them differentiate their personal and work lives even at home. Constant digital interactions and consuming large amounts of online data can also cause physical and mental fatigue. Encouraging employees to have mental health breaks, participate in fun office activities, and take days off when necessary can lessen the chances of this. Ultimately, companies that prioritize work-life balance are helping their employees produce quality work and have the motivation they need. 

Find opportunities for growth. Companies must pivot and reimagine the future to survive. To do this, they have to help employees find avenues and platforms for growth — be it through online training and webinars, one on one sessions, or online courses. This ensures that employees from different generations can keep up with today’s changing landscape. It can also motivate them to learn new things and explore possibilities outside of their usual tasks at work.

These tips may sound simple, but applying them can keep employees engaged in the virtual space. Helping employees stay motivated and productive is just one way companies can take care of their workforce. No matter what generation they come from, all employees deserve to be part of a company that values them, keeps them motivated, and continuously inspires them to do their best, even from the comforts of their home. 

Talk to us at info@teamasia.com to know more on how you can stay productive and motivated.