You're leading a hybrid team and need to motivate them. What's the best way to do it?

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

Communication is key for any team, but especially for a hybrid one. You need to make sure everyone is on the same page about the goals, expectations, and progress of the team. Use a variety of tools and channels, such as email, video calls, chat, and project management software, to share information and feedback. Schedule regular check-ins and meetings with the whole team and with individual members, and encourage informal interactions as well. Be transparent, consistent, and respectful in your communication, and listen to your team's concerns and suggestions.

2 Recognize and reward achievements

One of the challenges of leading a hybrid team is ensuring that everyone feels valued and appreciated for their work. You need to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions and successes of both remote and in-office workers, and avoid any bias or favoritism. You can use different methods to recognize and reward your team, such as public praise, personal thank-you notes, bonuses, gift cards, or team events. Make sure you tailor your recognition and rewards to the preferences and needs of each team member, and be fair and timely in your delivery.

4 Provide clear and consistent feedback

Feedback is essential for any team, but especially for a hybrid one. You need to provide your team with clear and consistent feedback on their performance, goals, and expectations. You need to use both formal and informal feedback mechanisms, such as appraisals, surveys, reports, and conversations, to monitor and evaluate your team's work. You need to give constructive, specific, and timely feedback, and focus on both strengths and areas for improvement. You also need to solicit feedback from your team on your leadership, the team dynamics, and the work environment, and act on it accordingly.

5 Support well-being and balance

Leading a hybrid team can also pose challenges for the well-being and balance of both yourself and your team members. You need to be aware of the potential risks of stress, burnout, isolation, or disconnection that hybrid workers may face. You need to support your team's well-being and balance by providing them with the necessary resources, tools, and guidance to work effectively and comfortably. You also need to encourage your team to set healthy boundaries, take breaks, and prioritize their physical and mental health. You also need to model and practice well-being and balance yourself, and show empathy and compassion to your team.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?