Remote and hybrid work models are here to stay. According to the “The State of Remote Work in 2024” report, hybrid jobs are expected to increase from 42% in 2021 to 81% in 2024. The report also highlights that nearly a third of workers globally They are working exclusively remotely for companies as of this year.
Do you dream of drafting emails on the beach or closing deals via Zoom in your cozy mountain retreat? Or maybe your dream is to earn money while providing for your children when they grow up.
Welcome to the modern workplace revolution, where remote work is a lifestyle choice for professionals in various sectors, such as the travel and marketing industries.
Aneri Papenfus, experienced Independent Travel Consultant (ITC), talks about her journey with Flight Center Independent (FCI), highlighting the balance between independence and support:
“Joining FCI when I needed more flexibility after having children allowed me to run my business on my terms, yet always felt like I was part of a larger supportive community.”
“FCI has a supportive and collaborative culture,” says Dalize Etsebeth, another of FCI’s empowered ITCs. “Although we work independently, there is a strong sense of community and mutual support among consultants.
But beyond the freedom and countless other perks of remote and hybrid work, the same question often arises: How do you stay motivated and connected?? Below, we dive into insider strategies and tips for fostering team culture no matter where you work.
Remote prosperity strategies
Did you know that remote workers are more productive than their office counterparts? That's because workers who feel satisfied with their jobs tend to produce more — up to 31% more, according to the Harvard Business Review.
Although increasing productivity is part of the remote work package, there are ways to improve your daily life even further:
- Accept routines and limits: One of the main attractions of remote work is to work wherever and whenever you want – and this is obviously endlessly convenient. However, you'll often find that you're more productive and inspired when you create a daily routine with set hours and a designated workspace. This will also enhance your focus, reduce stress and prevent burnout.
- Rejection power: Politely declining projects that do not match your experience or ability ensures quality service and personal well-being.
- The worry remains: Keep your passion for your work alive every day. For example, as an ITC, you can fill your workspace with travel-themed decor, listen to industry podcasts, and engage with online travel communities.
- Connect with like-minded professionals: Regular virtual meetups or industry events can help exchange ideas and experiences and foster a shared sense of purpose and belonging.
“At FCI, we ensure our independent consultants feel connected by creating and managing digital communities such as WhatsApp and Facebook groups to seek support and share information. We also encourage ITCs living in the same area to enjoy regular coffee meet-ups and attend hosted lunches, and we offer incentive trips and annual events, such as the annual World Ball, where ITC come together and form lasting personal and professional bonds,” comments Chantal Gaus, Managing Director, Flight Center Independent.
Actionable tips for growing a remote team culture
There are plenty of actions you can take if you're an employer coordinating a team of remote workers. Here's how to cultivate a positive team culture that's not affected by distance:
- Utilize practical communication tools: Platforms like Slack, Asana, and Teams can simplify collaboration and maintain regular communication.
- Promote a mix of online and in-person interactions: Encourage participation and community in digital forums and occasional face-to-face gatherings.
- Celebrating collective and individual successes: Recognizing achievements can greatly boost morale and foster a culture of appreciation and motivation.
In conclusion, the shift to remote work has revealed new dimensions of freedom and flexibility, proving that professionals can create fulfilling careers outside the confines of the traditional office with the right strategies and support. FCI embodies this by combining independence with a strong support network, proving that a strong community and team culture can thrive even in a remote environment.
“At FCI, we have seen firsthand that when people are given the autonomy to work in the way that works best for them, coupled with consistent support and a sense of community, they excel and help foster a vibrant, inclusive culture that transcends physical boundaries. This is the future of work – not siloed, but More connected and empowered than ever.
Quick fixes for team culture challenges in remote/hybrid work
Challenge: communication breakdown
- Quick fix: Implement regular check-ins and adopt communication tools that align with the team's needs.
Challenge: isolation and separation
- Quick fix: Foster social interactions through virtual coffee breaks, digital and in-person team building activities, and informal get-togethers to build rapport and camaraderie.
Challenge: Overlapping boundaries of work and life
- Quick fix: Encourage clear guidelines for work hours, reinforce the importance of taking breaks, and support flexible scheduling to respect personal time.
Challenge: Keeping the level of motivation and engagement high
- Quick fix: Recognize achievements, set clear goals, and provide regular feedback to motivate and engage team members.
Challenge: Collaboration and building trust
- Quick fix: Embrace collaborative project management tools and create opportunities for team members to work on shared tasks.
