Mastering Remote Teamwork: 7 Tips for Accounting Leaders

Let’s rewind to pre-2020. How many accounting firms operated remotely? While specific statistics for accounting firms are scarce, the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey reported that less than 6% of people primarily worked from home in 2019. Remote team building wasn’t on most companies’ radars.

Then, COVID-19 struck, forcing many firms to go remote. Now, as we’ve adapted to the new normal, many firms are embracing flexible work arrangements.

Remote work: A new reality for accounting firms

If your firm is among those that have embraced remote work, here are seven strategies for building trust and cohesion in a remote or hybrid team.

1. Be transparent and communicate often

Communication is the cornerstone of remote team building. Whether your team is fully remote or hybrid, prioritize real-time collaboration through platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Google Chat.

Encourage open dialogue, allowing team members to share updates, ask questions and provide honest feedback. Schedule weekly check-ins to discuss projects and address challenges.

By maintaining transparent communication channels, you’ll nurture strong connections and collaboration among your remote and hybrid teams.

2. Set clear expectations for your remote team

For your staff to excel, they need to understand their roles, responsibilities and goals.

Establish clear guidelines covering:

• Individual roles and responsibilities
• Task assignments
• Expected response times during work hours
• Project timelines and deadlines

Review and communicate any changes regularly to keep everyone aligned. This clarity provides a solid foundation for successful remote team building.

3. Cultivate a thriving culture with the “Four C’s” approach

Building a healthy firm culture is crucial for remote and hybrid teams. It starts with leadership and centers around the Four C’s:

• Clarity: Define your firm’s WHAT, WHO, HOW and WHY.
• Candor: Foster an environment of honest feedback.
• Connection: Ensure team members feel valued and appreciated.
• Consistency: Commit to ongoing, incremental improvements.

Consider creating a culture task force to promote connection and plan engaging activities. A strong culture creates a positive remote work experience that boosts collaboration and satisfaction.

4. Equip your team with remote work technology

A robust tech stack is essential for seamless remote collaboration. Ensure your staff has access to:

• Cloud-based accounting applications: QuickBooks® Desktop, QuickBooks Online, ProSeries, Lacerte, Thomson Reuters—any type of accounting or tax tool you’re using should be cloud-based, not only for the ease of real-time collaboration but for the security, too.

• Team-oriented work tools: Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 offer browserbased access to make collaborating across spreadsheets, documents and presentations much easier.

• Collaboration platforms: Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams help keep teams in touch, and as we know—communication is key to a healthy remote environment.

• Cloud storage and document management solutions: Use cloud storage tools to safely share important documents with your staff and clients.

• Practice management software: Define workflows, track tasks and deadlines, and automate daily processes to make it extra clear who’s responsible for what and when.

With the right tools, you can streamline communication, boost productivity, and make onboarding new remote staff a breeze.

5. Help balance work and life for your remote employees

One advantage of remote work is the potential for better work-life balance. Offer flexibility in work hours, encourage breaks, and prioritize self-care. Emphasize the importance of disconnecting during non-work hours to prevent burnout.

Supporting work-life balance builds trust, enhances job satisfaction, and contributes to a positive remote work culture.

6. Schedule regular check-ins with everyone on your team

Schedule brief, regular one-on-one meetings with each team member. Use this time to gather feedback, address concerns, and check on their well-being.

Don’t forget to discuss non-work topics to strengthen personal connections and foster a healthy firm culture.

7. Plan creative, virtual team-building activities

For remote team bonding to work, it can’t be just about the work. Organize virtual activities to promote bonding and strengthen relationships:

• Virtual trivia or quiz sessions: Online platforms like TriviaHub or JackBox Games make it easy.

• Online escape rooms: Solve puzzles and uncover clues together on The Escape Game Remote Adventures website.

• Professional development workshops: Arrange online training sessions on topics of interest or hire speakers within your profession to speak with your team.

• Virtual coffee breaks or happy hours: Casually chat with your team over a brew about non-work-related topics.

Remember to schedule these activities during regular work hours to ensure maximum participation and respect for work-life balance.

Embrace the future of remote work with intention

If you’re a leader of a remote and hybrid team, team building is crucial for success. By implementing these strategies, you’ll foster strong connections, enhance collaboration, and boost productivity among your staff.

Equip your employees with the necessary tools and autonomy to excel in a remote environment. With dedication and the right approach, you can build a thriving remote or hybrid accounting firm.

Ready to take your remote team to the next level? Join Rightworks Academy today for more resources and guidance on mastering the virtual workplace.

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