Manager meetings crucial to connect remote staff
A Netwealth adviser survey has found the move to working from home by advice firms has improved work/life balance but many staff are losing the human interaction with their managers.
The firm’s latest AdviceTech report, focused on staffing, identified pros and cons which have resulted from the move to working from home (WFH), an option utilised by 78% of 303 advice firms surveyed.
The most difficult aspects of WFH was brainstorming and running workshops, cited by 53% of respondents, followed by teamwork (51%) and onboarding new staff (48.9%).
One in four firms said manager-staff communication was harder while others said they were working longer hours or over the weekend as a result of the increased flexibility.
“The shift to remote working has not been without its issues as there are fewer casual interactions, more video meetings and a perceived pressure to be constantly online.
“It seems the human side to staff interaction and management has somewhat been lost,” said Matt Heine, joint managing director of Netwealth.
Netwealth said it was critically important for managers to keep up a regular manager/staff catch-up as the manager was often the only link between remote employees and the wider organisation.
On the other hand, the pros of WFH found by advice firms were a better work/life balance, an overwhelming winner with 57.4%. This was followed by 30% who said they saw increased productivity and 29% who said they had better mental health.
Staff also appreciated when they were supported with technology to WFH such as remote IT helpdesks, access to important files and a good internet speed.
AUTHOR
Laura Dew
Recommended for you
Iress has announced it will divest its superannuation business as the latest step in its transformation program, allowing it to focus on wealth management.
The corporate regulator has named its new chief executive, who is set to replace retiring interim CEO Greg Yanco in March.
Following the departure of its chief marketing officer last year, AMP has appointed a successor to take up the position with the appointment coming from the US.
The Financial Services Council has appointed Justine Earl-Smith as executive director for commercial partnerships and growth, a newly created role for the organisation.
