Date Published September 15, 2025 - Last Updated September 15, 2025
Remote and hybrid work arrangements have sparked ongoing debate, with notable advantages and disadvantages. The flexibility of working remotely grants access to a wider talent pool, enhances work-life balance and reduces costs related to office space. Nevertheless, physical separation can present challenges in workplace culture, management, communication and personal connection. Intentional strategies, by both the manager and employee, are necessary to nurture engagement and avoid potential impacts on career progression.
While I am not opposed to remote work and appreciate the occasional flexibility to work from home, I find that a fully remote schedule does not suit me. Blurring the boundaries between work and home makes it challenging for me to transition between work and personal time, leaving me feeling pulled in both directions throughout the evening.
As a manager of several hybrid employees, it has also required different techniques and structures to ensure my remote workers are remaining connected, supported and do not miss critical information that may be communicated to others in the office.
If you’re working in a hybrid or remote position, here’s what I’ve learned:
1. Set and Maintain a Consistent Work Schedule
Establish a regular work routine and stick to it, even if your employer allows flexibility. Consistency is key for achieving work-life balance and demonstrates reliability to your colleagues and supervisors. It is also helpful to establish a specific routine to mark the end of your workday. Whether that is shutting down your computer, closing the office door or simply stating the workday is over, it is important to delineate professional responsibilities from personal time.
2. Deliver Exceptional Work
Always aim to produce high-quality results within agreed deadlines, regardless of where you work. Remote employees may sometimes face uncertainty or lack clarity on assignments, so it is important to proactively seek help or resources rather than struggling in isolation.
3. Be Present and Professional
Approach remote meetings as you would in-person ones. This includes turning on your camera during virtual meets, dressing appropriately and ensuring your environment gives a positive impression. Stay focused during discussions and avoid multitasking. Avoid growing too casual and comfortable in your remote setting. Presence matters.
4. Build Relationships
Invest time in connecting with your colleagues and manager. Consider arranging social events or starting meetings with fun facts to build rapport. Seek opportunities to collaborate or connect with individuals outside of your immediate team as well. Those relationships may lead to your next opportunity.
5. Communicate Clearly and Frequently
Prioritize clear communication, seeking clarification and opportunities for growth or mentorship. While digital tools are convenient, they can easily lead to misunderstanding. Do not shy away from a phone call or virtual meeting when a more nuanced discussion is required.
6. Volunteer for Opportunities
Actively look for ways to contribute beyond your immediate responsibilities. Volunteering to solve workplace problems can open doors for advancement and skill development, though these opportunities may require more effort to identify in a remote setting.
7. Establish Boundaries
Discuss expectations for after-hours availability and emergency communication with your manager. With technologies such as Teams or Slack, employees are never out of reach. It is wise to clarify how your manager should communicate with you if something critical requires attention outside of the workday. Then, configure your technology to minimize interruptions outside business hours and protect your personal time.
8. Take Regular Breaks
Make it a habit to leave your desk occasionally and take restorative breaks. Without the normal office interruptions or transitions between meeting locations, it is easy to remain sedentary. Periodic movement and time outdoors are vital for well-being. So, get up, stretch, and step into the sunshine every now and then!
9. Continue Developing Your Skills
Always seek opportunities to grow and refine your professional competencies to remain adaptable in a changing work landscape. Consider providing weekly summaries to your manager of what was accomplished, where you are spending your time and what you are learning. Seek feedback and show a commitment to ongoing development and engagement in your work.
10. Know what works best for you
If remote or hybrid work does not suit you, that’s OK! It is not for everyone. If you find it is not bringing out the best in you or keeping you connected and engaged to your work, discuss other options with your manager.