5 Tactics for Hiring Remote Employees

The number of employees working remotely during the coronavirus pandemic has been increasing. Odds are your accounting and finance team is included in this group. If so, you must know what to look for when hiring remote employees. Because you cannot oversee a staff member’s work in person, the criteria for hiring are different than when hiring for on-site roles.

Implement these five tips when hiring remote accounting and finance employees.

Understand the Motivation for Remote Work

Find out the reasons for each candidate wanting to work remotely. For instance, they may need flexibility to care for their children or an aging parent. Also, candidates might desire to work for an employer that’s geographically distant without having to relocate. Gaining greater insight into the desire for remote work can help you make more informed hiring decisions.

Emphasize Soft Skills

Focus on the interpersonal skills needed for remote work. For instance, time management, tech knowledge, and communication are important. Self-motivation, organization, and self-sufficiency are important as well. Candidates need to show they can work independently while meeting deadlines.

Set Up Remote Testing

Provide remote testing for the skills needed to complete the work. For instance, assign a short project related to the type of work the candidate would do if hired. Set a deadline to submit their work. See how well each candidate handles potential tech issues, asks questions about the assignment, and produces a finished product. Or, use a web-based platform that lets you customize tests in aptitudes such as auditing or financial analysis.

Provide Flexibility

Provide as much flexibility as possible in your remote work arrangements. For instance, let employees set their own work hours. Completing tasks during peak performance hours keeps them engaged and productive. Also, emphasize the importance of measuring results more than hours worked. When employees finish their tasks on time, they can move on to other projects. This lets them accomplish more throughout the week, resulting in greater achievements, job satisfaction, and employee retention.

Offer Perks

Emphasize the attractive perks your company has to make remote work even more fulfilling. For instance, provide wellness programs that enhance physical, emotional, mental, financial, and professional well-being. Also, offer virtual team-building events such as a happy hour or movie night. Additionally, provide reimbursement for job-related books, seminars, and other professional development. Plus, offer subscriptions for home delivery of meal kits to prepare healthy dinners. Desirable perks can enhance your remote work culture, employee happiness, and productivity.

Partner with a Recruiter

Hiring remote workers involves finding out why candidates want to work from home and whether they have the technical and interpersonal skills required for success. Pointing out the flexibility and perks your company provides for remote workers helps to attract top talent.

When you need to hire remote accounting and finance professionals, talk with Casey Accounting & Finance Resources. Discover firsthand why we were named on the inaugural Forbes List of America’s Best Recruitment Firms in 2020. Find out more today.

Make Your Contract Employees Feel Welcome & Included From Day One

Contract employees bring as much to the table as full-time employees. Because contractors’ specialized skills often fill a need your full-time employees cannot, they are valuable members of your organization. However, because of the temporary nature of contract roles, employers tend to treat contractors differently than full-time employees. This discourages collaboration and production, which hinders progress. Rather than putting a wedge between contractors and full-time employees, take these steps to make contract employees feel included from day one.

Treat Contractors Like Full-time Employees

Set up a coworking space near the office. Use Skype, Slack or other technology to include remote contractors in meetings. Give them access to the company newsletter, gym and other resources. Invite contractors to lunch and company events both inside and outside the workplace.

Build Relationships

Schedule frequent face time with your contractors through a weekly Skype discussion, monthly coffee or participation in company events. You also can provide feedback on work performance so contractors know what they are doing well and how they can improve.

Encourage Company Representation

Wherever your contact employees are located, provide opportunities for them to represent your company. For instance, ask if they would like to participate in an upcoming industry even or conference. Suggest your contractors speak at a school’s career day or attend job fairs. Host a Meetup or networking happy hour for them to meet other professionals. Sponsor contract employees’ membership in an industry-related organization.

Offer Professional Development Opportunities

Contract employees are interested in gaining and sharpening their skills to remain relevant in the workforce. For instance, if your full-time employees are required to take an online class, provide your contractors with the same opportunity. Or, pay for contractors to take part in a workshop or conference and share key information at your next team meeting.

Express Appreciation

Let your contract employees know how much you appreciate their contributions. They thrive on positive feedback that increases feelings of self-worth. For instance, ask contractors to participate in company events, handle important tasks or provide input when making team decisions. Show how their contributions are helping to achieve company goals. Give shout-outs in the company newsletter and a bonus for a job well done.

Hire Contract Accounting and Finance Employees Through a Top Chicago Employment Agency

To find qualified contract employees in Chicago, contact Casey Accounting & Finance Resources. Our seasoned recruiters are ready to provide you with the contractors you need to fill your business needs!

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