How Do You Manage a Remote Team Without Micromanaging? Micromanagement is easy to fall into as a remote manager. How do you know your team is getting their work done if you can't walk out of your office and see everyone active at their desks? You don't have to (and shouldn't) become a micromanager to keep your staff productive. Begin by encouraging team members to accept ownership for their work. They will be more proactive in problem-solving and taking initiative to get things done if they feel accountable for their project and take pride in the results. This will improve productivity and responsibility without the need for micromanagement. Take advantage of opportunities to serve as a mentor, assisting your team members in growing, learning new skills, and developing confidence in their work and abilities. Encourage accountability by conducting regular check-ins via virtual meetings, phone conversations, or emails to verify they are on track and meeting deadlines, while being available to offer assistance and direction as required. This will allow them to be accountable without feeling overwhelmed or suffocated by the boss's relentless scrutiny. Remember that remote workers may have different schedules than traditional 9 to 5 employees, and trust your employees. Don't worry about tracking every minute of their day as long as their work is completed on schedule.