How to engage remote and hybrid employees via coaching

In the evolving landscape of work, hybrid and remote models have become the norm for many organizations. While this shift offers flexibility and accessibility, it also presents unique challenges in leadership, team dynamics, and employee engagement. One powerful solution that has emerged to address these challenges is 1:1 coaching. By providing tailored support and guidance, coaching enhances the effectiveness of hybrid and remote work in several key ways.

Fostering communication and connection

In a hybrid or remote environment, maintaining open lines of communication can be challenging. Coached leaders are equipped with the skills to facilitate meaningful conversations and build trust within their teams, even when working apart. Coaching emphasizes the importance of active listening, empathy, and clarity in communication. As leaders develop these skills, they create a culture of openness, encouraging team members to share their thoughts and concerns freely.

Research from Gallup shows that employees who feel connected to their teams are 2.5 times more likely to be engaged in their work. When leaders receive coaching on how to foster these connections, it can lead to increased morale and productivity across the team, regardless of location.

Enhancing accountability and goal alignment

Coaching provides a structured approach to setting goals and holding team members accountable, which is especially critical in a remote setting where direct supervision may be limited. Through regular coaching sessions, leaders can help their teams clarify individual and collective objectives, ensuring everyone is aligned with the organization’s mission.

In a survey conducted by BetterUp, 80% of participants reported that coaching helped them become more accountable for their goals. This accountability not only drives performance but also encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility among team members, leading to improved outcomes in hybrid and remote work scenarios.

Supporting well-being and work-life balance

The boundary between work and personal life can blur in a remote environment, leading to burnout and decreased productivity. 1:1 coaching emphasizes the importance of well-being and self-care, providing leaders with strategies to promote a healthy work-life balance for themselves and their teams.

According to a study by Buffer, 22% of remote workers cite burnout as their biggest struggle. Coaches at lume are particularly skilled at helping leaders recognize the signs of burnout and implement practices that prioritize mental health, such as regular check-ins, setting boundaries, and taking breaks. By promoting a culture of well-being, coached leaders can foster an environment where team members feel valued and supported.

Developing adaptability and resilience

In a rapidly changing work environment, adaptability and resilience are crucial skills for leaders. Coaching helps leaders develop these competencies by encouraging them to embrace change, seek innovative solutions, and maintain a positive outlook.

A study by McKinsey & Company found that organizations with resilient leaders are 2.5 times more likely to outperform their competitors. At lume, our exceptional coaches work closely with leaders to equip them with the tools needed to navigate uncertainty and inspire their teams to do the same.

Improving team collaboration and innovation

Effective collaboration is essential for success in hybrid and remote work. Coaching can help leaders cultivate an inclusive environment that encourages diverse perspectives and ideas. Through coaching, leaders learn how to facilitate collaborative discussions and leverage technology to enhance teamwork, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

Research by Deloitte found that inclusive teams outperform their peers by 80% in team-based assessments. When leaders are coached on fostering collaboration, they create a culture of innovation where team members feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the organization’s success.

Final thoughts

As organizations continue to adapt to hybrid and remote work models, investing in 1:1 coaching for leaders is a strategic move that can drive effectiveness, engagement, and resilience across teams. At lume, we are proud of our amazing coaches who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, working not just with individual leaders but also with entire teams to provide insightful reporting on engagement, progress, and learnings. By enhancing communication, accountability, well-being, adaptability, and collaboration, coaching provides the support leaders need to thrive in a changing work environment. The result is a more cohesive, motivated, and productive workforce—one that is well-prepared to meet the challenges of today’s dynamic business landscape.