Can you get ahead from home? Many employees long to shed the wasted commute hours, frequent small talk interruptions, and often valueless meetings that come with going to an office each day. There is no doubt that working remotely has many perks. However, out of sight can also mean out of mind for corporate professional development and promotions. Here are tips to make sure you don’t miss out on growth opportunities just because you are not in the office.
1. BE ACCESSIBLE. In office employees often joke that remote employees are spending their days watching Netflix and working out. One of the best ways to dispel this fear is to be as responsive as you would be if you were in the office. Set unique alerts for when emails are received from your boss or key colleagues and try using communication tools like Slack for instant messaging. At the very least, look at your email every 30 to 60 minutes (at the longest) to respond to any messages. Sending a response like, “I am working on that strategic project with the tight deadline until 4 today, but wanted you to know I received your message and will respond by close of business today.” can make a significant difference.
2. BE PROACTIVE. When you are in the office, it is easier for a manager to think of you for a key project or opportunity because you are visible. Remote employees can struggle with maintaining top of mind status because they are not in the same physical space. As a counter to this, plan to proactively check in with managers and key colleagues regarding your work objectives and inquire about (or pitch) additional ways you can add value. The extra effort ensures that you stay on the radar and your proactive suggestions may land you more interesting (and career defining) work.
3. BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND NETWORK. Look for opportunities to get face time. If possible, visit the office regularly for a meeting or status update. If in person meetings are not feasible, leverage virtual “face time” through video chat. The human connection that comes from seeing someone is undeniable. It is much easier to build a bond and maintain attention using sound and sight. Additionally, look for reasons to connect with colleagues and managers in other teams and groups. Often, additional career development and promotions come because of exposure to cross functional groups. Remote employees often limit their interaction to “need to know” coworkers. While it requires more savviness, leveraging volunteer projects, task forces or other cross functional initiatives to expand your network pays major dividends for career growth.
In short, block time regularly for activities that foster growth in trust and respect for you and your work. Strategic planning can ensure that working remotely and growing your career are not mutually exclusive.
