Are virtual teams good for diversity and inclusion?

Remote Work Makes for More Inclusive Environments

The fact that remote work has become a far more common practice is a good reason to look at how remote work impacts inclusiveness and diversity in the workplace.


Challenges for Inclusion and Remote Work. 

There are challenges for inclusion when remotely working. Many employers have focused on this problem since work from home flexibility became an acceptable working pattern and some have been more successful than others. A few of the common challenges in workplaces are as follows:


  • Isolation
    Other than the dog barking at the mail van, some employees don’t have much interaction with others during their working day. Employers try to provide the technologies necessary to communicate business related messages but that doesn't replace the kinds of social interactions that workers were accustomed to prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. 
  • Difficulty Speaking Up in Meetings
    Not everyone working in an office is an extrovert ready to share their ideas. No amount of prodding will make it any easier for those who are not inclined to speak up to do so. This can lead to a feeling of exclusion as they find it challenging to share their ideas. 
  • Communication Becomes Choppy
    Communication distribution can become a major challenge as businesses move to remote work. This is particularly true for businesses which have people working on different shifts. The challenge for these businesses is to ensure messages are communicated evenly and smoothly to all. 


Business Culture Must Be Flexible

A business’ culture is created over many years as individuals within that business strive towards a common goal. Some businesses get branded as hard driven and very forceful while others are more laidback and friendly. Much of this cultural development can be attributed to the kinds of products or services the business offers, as their target audience. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to a business’ culture and the same culture that works effectively in the office may not thrive when that work pattern becomes remote.


Burnout Amongst Remote Workers 

Working remotely and without daily physical interaction can be challenging and lead to a feeling of ‘burnout’. Workers are expressing their concerns about feeling a lack of motivation for their work and about physical and mental exhaustion.


Growing Leadership Values and Making Everyone Heard 

It is challenging working and managing remotely. It probably seemed like all upsides in the beginning, but there are clearly a lot more dynamics at play.


Managers have frequently turned over entire virtual meetings to their employees to allow them to voice ideas, concerns, and anything else on their mind. This serves two purposes. The first is that employees can blow off some steam related to the stresses they may feel because of COVID-19 and their work/life balance. The second is that these meetings can be a means to identifying the leaders of tomorrow and who can have their leadership skills developed. Managers should keep a keen eye and ear open for those who might show real leadership growth potential at this time. 


New projects and assignments might be awarded to those who seem most up to the challenge. It is also apparent to assess who is thriving and who is struggling. Those who are struggling may just need some focused attention and training to get them ‘back on track.’


Get in touch

Jakobb Mills • August 29, 2022

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us

Share this article

Useful links

Search for jobs today

Got a vacancy?

What's happening in the market?

How do I prepare for my job interview?

Recent Insights

By Claire McNab May 26, 2024
In today's rapidly changing world, the call for environmental responsibility is louder than ever. With climate change looming as a critical global challenge, businesses are increasingly under pressure to play their part in mitigating its effects. One of the most significant ways they can contribute is by taking accountability for their sustainability practices, particularly in reducing carbon emissions.
By Esha Nischol May 19, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, automation is reshaping industries and transforming the way we work. While automation offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and productivity, it also presents challenges and uncertainties for the workforce. Understanding the opportunities and challenges of automation on employment is crucial for individuals and organizations alike as we navigate the future of work.
By Hamish Lamberton May 15, 2024
In recent years, the rise of remote work has revolutionized the way companies approach recruitment. With advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of virtual communication tools, many organizations are now embracing remote recruitment strategies to attract and hire top talent. In this blog post, we'll explore how companies are adapting to virtual hiring processes and the strategies they're employing to succeed in this new era of recruitment. One of the key challenges of remote recruitment is creating meaningful connections with candidates without the benefit of face-to-face interactions. To overcome this obstacle, companies are leveraging video conferencing platforms to conduct virtual interviews and assessments. These tools allow recruiters to assess candidates' communication skills, professionalism, and cultural fit, all while providing a more personal touch than traditional phone interviews. In addition to video interviews, companies are also utilizing virtual recruitment events to engage with candidates and showcase their employer brand. Virtual career fairs, networking sessions, and informational webinars allow companies to connect with a broader pool of candidates regardless of geographic location. By hosting these events online, companies can reach candidates who may not have been able to attend in-person events, thereby expanding their talent pool and increasing diversity. Another important aspect of remote recruitment is the use of technology to streamline the hiring process. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruitment software help companies manage job postings, track candidate applications, and collaborate with hiring teams more efficiently. These tools automate repetitive tasks, such as resume screening and scheduling interviews, freeing up recruiters to focus on building relationships with candidates and making strategic hiring decisions. Furthermore, companies are investing in employer branding initiatives to differentiate themselves in a competitive talent market. Through social media, company blogs, and virtual office tours, organizations can showcase their company culture, values, and employee benefits to prospective candidates. By highlighting their unique selling points and demonstrating their commitment to employee satisfaction, companies can attract top talent and create a positive candidate experience. Finally, remote recruitment requires a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration among hiring teams. With team members working from different locations, it's essential to establish clear channels of communication and set expectations for roles and responsibilities. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common hiring goals. In conclusion, remote recruitment strategies are becoming increasingly essential for companies looking to stay competitive in today's digital age. By embracing virtual hiring processes, leveraging technology, and prioritizing communication and collaboration, organizations can attract and hire top talent regardless of geographic location. As remote work continues to evolve, companies that adapt and innovate in their recruitment strategies will be best positioned to succeed in the future of work.

NZ's 2024 Employment

and Salary Trends Report

Salary trends, talent attraction and retention strategies

Request your copy
Share by: