“People just collaborate better in person.”
That was the sentiment shared in a conversation with a corporate veteran of over 30 years. In his view, only in-office employees could collaborate spontaneously over coffee, leading to better teamwork and innovation.
Yet, the reality of today's workforce tells a different story. Many companies are not only operating fully remotely but are excelling at it. The 2023 Buffer State of Remote Work survey found that 68 percent of workers reported a very positive experience with remote work. Additionally, concerns over collaboration and communication challenges have significantly decreased. In 2020, 20 percent of workers cited collaboration as a major issue, but by 2023, that number had dropped to just 8 percent.
As companies continue to debate between remote, hybrid, or in-office work models, employees are still prioritizing work-life balance and flexibility. Organizations that embrace remote work and adapt their management strategies stand to benefit from a more engaged, productive, and satisfied workforce. Here’s how businesses can foster effective collaboration, regardless of location:
1. Adopt Proactive Communication
Communication is the backbone of successful remote collaboration. Providing multiple communication channels—such as video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and collaboration platforms—ensures employees stay connected. Additionally, training managers to be proactive in reaching out and fostering dialogue enhances team cohesion and clarity on projects.
2. Leverage Collaboration Tools
Modern technology has made remote teamwork easier than ever. Tools like Microsoft Teams, Google Docs, Slack, and Evernote allow employees to work on projects simultaneously, share updates in real time, and streamline workflows. Using these tools effectively can create a seamless collaborative environment that rivals in-office interactions.
3. Strengthen Team Morale
Building a strong team culture remotely requires intentional effort. Virtual celebrations for birthdays, work anniversaries, and project milestones help foster a sense of belonging. Events like virtual happy hours, game nights, or even online baby showers create a connected and motivated workforce.
4. Provide Genuine Support
Employee support goes beyond words—it requires action. Regular check-ins, clear benchmarks, and assigning responsibilities ensure that employees feel valued and supported. Providing resources, guidance, and flexibility allows remote workers to contribute effectively and feel like integral members of the company.
5. Recognize and Reward Effort
Employee appreciation plays a crucial role in retention and productivity. A study by Glassdoor revealed that 80 percent of employees work harder when they feel their efforts are recognized. Public acknowledgment, monetary rewards, or thoughtful gifts can reinforce a culture of appreciation and motivation.
The Future of Work is Flexible
Remote work is not a hindrance to collaboration—it’s an opportunity to rethink and improve the way teams work together. By embracing proactive communication, leveraging the right tools, fostering morale, offering genuine support, and recognizing employees' contributions, businesses can thrive in a remote-first world.
At WAHVE, we’ve operated remotely since our inception and have seen firsthand how well-structured remote collaboration leads to success. Organizations that prioritize flexibility and trust will not only retain top talent but also cultivate a culture of innovation, engagement, and long-term growth.