Simple Strategies for Leading a Productive and Cohesive Remote Team

Back in 2018, I was leading a course on Business Communication at the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. One of the assignments of the course was to present a persuasive presentation on the benefits of working from home. At the time, remote working was something that sounded foreign to many of the students and myself. Little did we know that in just two years, the COVID pandemic would force the majority of white-collar workers into that form of work.

Fast forward a few years later and major companies are announcing they are eliminating the option for individuals to work from home. Some rationale for this decision is related to poor employee satisfaction, low productivity, and less networking opportunities.

Regardless of the reasoning, the decision to resolve the option of remote work entirely is not, and should not be, a black and white decision.

Now, I am not saying that leading a remote team doesn't presents unique challenges. Without the usual face-to-face interactions, managers and directors are forced to find new ways to keep their teams productive and connected.

Remote work can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, miscommunication, and uneven performance. Yet, with the right strategies and leaders, remote teams can thrive, delivering strong results while maintaining a sense of unity.

This post offers practical guidance for directors, managers, and human resource specialists who want to lead remote teams that work well together and stay motivated.

Remote team member’s workspace with essential tools

Set Clear Expectations and Goals for Remote Teams

Remote work requires clarity. Without clear direction, team members may struggle to prioritize tasks or understand their responsibilities. Leaders should:

• Define specific, measurable goals for individuals and the team.

• Communicate deadlines and project milestones clearly.

• Use shared tools like project management software to track progress.

• Regularly check in to adjust goals as needed.

  
  

For example, a manager might set weekly targets for deliverables and hold brief video calls to review progress. This keeps everyone aligned and accountable.

Foster Open and Frequent Team Communication

Communication is the backbone of remote leadership. Teams need multiple channels to stay connected and share updates. Consider these approaches:

• Schedule regular video meetings to discuss projects and challenges.

• Use instant messaging for quick questions and informal chats.

• Encourage team members to share their work status daily or weekly.

• Create virtual “water cooler” spaces for casual conversations.

  
  

Open communication reduces misunderstandings and builds trust. For instance, a weekly video stand-up meeting can help the team feel more connected and aware of each other’s work.

Invest in Remote Professional Development Opportunities

Supporting professional development is key to keeping remote employees engaged and growing. Leaders can:

• Offer access to online courses and webinars.

• Encourage team members to set learning goals.

• Organize virtual workshops or guest speaker sessions.

• Provide time and resources for skill-building.

  
  

When employees see that leadership values their growth, they feel more motivated and loyal. A company that sponsors a monthly training session on new industry tools shows commitment to its team’s future.

Remote employee participating in virtual professional development

Build Team Cohesion with Virtual Team Building

Team building is essential to create a sense of belonging and collaboration. Remote teams miss out on spontaneous office interactions, so leaders must be intentional:

• Organize virtual team-building activities such as quizzes, games, or coffee chats.

• Celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries, and achievements online.

• Encourage peer recognition through shout-outs or awards.

• Create small groups or buddy systems for support and socializing.

  
  

For example, a monthly virtual game hour can help remote team members relax and bond beyond work tasks. These moments strengthen relationships and improve cooperation.

Use Technology to Support Collaboration

Choosing the right tools can make remote work smoother and more productive. Leaders should:

• Select platforms that fit the team’s needs for communication, file sharing, and project tracking.

• Train team members on how to use these tools effectively.

• Encourage consistent use to avoid fragmentation.

• Monitor tool usage and gather feedback to improve workflows.

  
  

A team using a shared document platform and video conferencing software can collaborate in real time, reducing delays and confusion.

Prioritize Well-being and Work-Life Balance

Remote work can blur the lines between personal and professional life, leading to burnout. Leadership should:

• Encourage regular breaks and reasonable working hours.

• Promote mental health resources and support.

• Model healthy work habits by respecting boundaries.

• Check in on employees’ well-being during one-on-one meetings.

  
  

When leaders show they care about well-being, employees feel valued and perform better. For example, a manager who reminds the team to log off on time sets a positive tone.

Lead by Example with Transparent and Supportive Leadership

Leadership style greatly influences remote team dynamics. Effective leaders:

• Communicate openly about company updates and challenges.

• Show empathy and understanding of remote work difficulties.

• Provide constructive feedback regularly.

• Recognize and celebrate team successes.

  
  

Transparency builds trust, and support encourages engagement. A leader who shares their own remote work struggles can create a culture of openness. All of this put together can assist you in leading a productive remote team that has strong team dynamics.