Fostering Manager-Employee Relationships in the Era of Remote Work: A Literature Review

Fostering Manager-Employee Relationships in the Era of Remote Work: A Literature Review

Nitish Kumar Minz
Copyright: © 2024 |Pages: 21
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-1314-5.ch009
OnDemand:
(Individual Chapters)
Available
$33.75
List Price: $37.50
Current Special Offers
10% Discount:-$3.75
TOTAL SAVINGS: $3.75

Abstract

Amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has emerged as a transformative influence, fundamentally altering organizational dynamics. This research explores the critical need to cultivate robust manager-employee relationships in the realm of remote work. Tackling challenges of communication, teamwork, and sustaining employee engagement, the study examines diverse methodologies and best practices transcending physical distances. Drawing insights from relevant literature, real-world case studies, and practical experiences, it contributes to a holistic understanding of the evolving landscape of remote work. Emphasizing the importance of nurturing connections, assessing the evolving managerial role, and recognizing the central role of technology, the research aims to empower organizations with insights and strategies to fortify manager-employee relationships, ultimately enhancing productivity, job satisfaction, and overall team performance in the era of remote work.
Chapter Preview
Top

1. Introduction

The global work landscape has experienced an unprecedented metamorphosis, propelled by the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once a peripheral consideration, remote work has rapidly evolved into a pivotal operational strategy for organizations worldwide (Baert et al., 2020; Bolade-Ogunfodun et al., 2022). This paradigm shift necessitates a compelling reevaluation of the traditional manager-employee relationship within the dynamic context of virtual work environments.

1.1 Background and Context

The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, compelling organizations to undergo swift adaptations and ushering in an era of remote work that challenged established workplace norms (Grzegorczyk et al., 2021). Beyond merely reshaping the physical workspace, this abrupt transition has blurred the boundaries between professional and personal life. Consequently, it has prompted a profound examination of the evolving dynamics of manager-employee relationships (Merrill, 2021).

The traditional notions of hierarchical structures and physical proximity that defined the manager-employee relationship are undergoing a significant reevaluation. As the boundaries between home and office blur, the dynamics of supervision, communication, and collaboration are being reshaped in unprecedented ways. This shift is not merely logistical; it represents a fundamental change in the way work is perceived, executed, and managed.

1.2 Rationale for the Study

The imperative to understand the nuances of remote manager-employee relationships has been underscored by the seismic disruptions caused by the pandemic. Organizations have recognized the need to foster resilience, adaptability, and employee engagement in the evolving landscape of remote work (Saini et al., 2022). The digital divide and gender inequity concerns associated with remote work have heightened the significance of studying manager-employee relationships in this context (Bolade-Ogunfodun et al., 2022).

Understanding the challenges and opportunities that come with the virtualization of work is not just a matter of practicality but a strategic necessity. Organizations that navigate this shift successfully stand to gain in terms of employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall resilience. It involves not only adapting to technological changes but also redefining leadership styles, communication strategies, and the very essence of organizational culture.

The transformation of the global work landscape due to the COVID-19 pandemic has propelled remote work into the forefront of organizational strategies. This shift demands a comprehensive reevaluation of the manager-employee relationship, necessitating an understanding of the profound changes in dynamics and the factors influencing them. As organizations navigate this uncharted territory, insights gained from such studies become invaluable, guiding them towards fostering effective, adaptive, and engaging virtual work environments. The journey toward redefining work relationships in the digital era is not just a response to a crisis but a strategic evolution with far-reaching implications for the future of work.

1.3 Research Objectives

i. Explore Remote Work Challenges

Investigate the challenges associated with remote communication, teamwork, and employee engagement to provide a comprehensive understanding of the hurdles organizations face in cultivating effective relationships within virtual workspaces.

ii. Analyze Leadership in Remote Context

Examine the evolving role of leadership in remote work, exploring how leaders can effectively guide, motivate, and support their teams from a distance, considering the unique dynamics of virtual collaboration.

iii. Evaluate Strategies and Best Practices

Identify, evaluate, and present strategies and best practices for remote manager-employee relationships, drawing insights from effective communication practices, technological facilitators, and innovative virtual team-building approaches. The aim is to offer practical recommendations for organizations seeking to enhance productivity and team performance in the remote work landscape.

Complete Chapter List

Search this Book:
Reset