As the workplace becomes more remote, virtual management training has become increasingly important. Unlike traditional in-person management, virtual management requires a unique set of skills to ensure teams are productive, collaboration is taking place, and communication is most effective. Here are some strategies for successful virtual management training.
1. Use Engaging Software
Virtual management training must be interactive and engaging in order to keep employees actively involved. For example, video conferencing tools are important for establishing a more meaningful connection between employees and management. Other tools such as interactive whiteboards, messaging tools, and interactive polls help to encourage collaboration and participation.
2. Incorporate a Variety of Mediums
Everyone has different learning styles so it is important to incorporate a variety of mediums such as videos, group discussions, simulations, and role-playing exercises. This gives everyone a chance to learn from various methods.
3. Provide Opportunities for Feedback
It is important that managers routinely check in with their employees to provide feedback. This is especially important in virtual environments, where managers don’t interact with their employees face-to-face on a daily basis. Managers should schedule weekly team meetings and regular one-on-ones to offer feedback, support, and guidance.
4. Foster Collaboration
Unlike traditional in-person office environments where employees can easily work together, this can be a bit more challenging in a remote setting. Nonetheless, it is still important that employees work together and collaborate to learn from each other and share ideas. Collaborative software programs encourage collaboration despite being physically apart.
5. Be Flexible and Accessible
Virtual management training should also be flexible and accessible to accommodate different time zones and different schedules. Consider offering recorded training sessions or self-paced modules to cater to everyone’s schedules.
6. Provide Ongoing Support
It is important to follow-up after a virtual training session to address any questions or concerns. Provide participants with resources to help them apply their new skills such as additional training materials, online coaching, mentoring, and scheduled follow-up sessions.
These strategies are useful in delivering a successful virtual management training session. This can be helpful in teaching managers how to effectively develop the skills of their employees inna remote work environment. For more management strategies, check out our variety of Management Training courses available through Bold New Directions. Call today to find out how you can improve your management skills by enrolling in one of our training courses.