Among the many lessons the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, one of the most significant is the need for preparedness. Whether it’s nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or individuals, having an “adaptation plan” is crucial in navigating rapidly changing times.
Embracing remote work for nonprofits has been one of the most profound changes brought about by the pandemic. While many employees value flexibility, and organizations claim readiness, the reality often presents challenges.
In a survey conducted by GoodHire, 60% of managers expressed a preference for a full-time return to the office, and 77% indicated they might take action against employees resisting this move. Decades of established practices and a lack of clear direction contribute to decisions that could negatively impact the talent pool.
In a competitive job market, it’s essential for organizations to move beyond outdated practices and adapt to the evolving workforce demands. By 2030, with Gen Z fully entering the workforce, the demand for remote work is projected to increase by 30%.
Both millennials and Gen Z are not only passionate about social change but actively work toward it daily. Combining this drive with the ability to work remotely positions nonprofit organizations uniquely to leverage the changing professional landscape.
Use these tips to help ensure that your remote work policy doesn’t simply look good on paper, but shines in practice.
1. Embrace Technology and Training
The rapid shift to online communication and collaboration presented challenges, from unfamiliarity with tools to discomfort with virtual interactions. While proficiency has improved, many employees still feel they lack adequate training in remote work management platforms.
For nonprofit organizations, teams may be dispersed across cities or even the country. Prioritizing technology training ensures employees can work seamlessly, regardless of location. This not only maintains workflow but also keeps team members connected, aware of their role in the bigger picture, and productive.
Consider multiple training sessions for new employees. Even if they’ve used similar tools before, your nonprofit might utilize them differently. Gather feedback from current employees to identify challenges and insights, helping build a robust technology training program.
2. Equip Your Team with Adequate Resources
In traditional office settings, employees have equal access to devices, internet connections, and on-site tech support. This parity may not exist in remote work setups. As a nonprofit dedicated to community support, it’s vital to provide your team with the necessary tools and resources.
Supplying laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots ensures employees remain connected while working from home. These tools are also beneficial for off-site team-building activities.
3. Acknowledge Different Work Environments
The transition to remote work has highlighted diverse challenges, notably the varying home environments of employees.
Some team members might lack dedicated workspaces or share their homes with others, making them uncomfortable with video meetings.
Nonprofit organizations should train managers to adopt empathetic approaches, granting them the autonomy to be flexible with their teams’ unique needs.
Instead of alienating talented employees due to unconventional home work environments, nonprofits should cultivate flexibility and adaptability.
4. Establish a Remote Work Policy
Whether considering remote work, implementing a hybrid model, or operating fully remotely, having an official remote work policy is essential.
As remote work remains relatively new, a documented policy helps manage expectations and strengthens relationships between leadership and teams.
Key components of a remote work policy include guidelines on cybersecurity, working hours, and video conferencing expectations. Providing employees with accessible documentation can prevent future misunderstandings.
Prepare Your Nonprofit for Remote Work
Nonprofit organizations are accustomed to pioneering new paths and understand that changing long-established practices requires effort. However, it’s through change that we evolve.
Affordable and reliable internet solutions, such as those offered by Mobile Citizen, assist social welfare agencies and nonprofits in bridging digital equity gaps. These resources empower your organization and team, ensuring they have the tools needed to adapt and thrive in a remote work environment.
For more information on how Mobile Citizen can support your nonprofit’s remote work initiatives, please contact our experts at the Mobile Citizen Customer Service Center at 877-216-9603.