By You’re probably familiar with compliance training courses in the physical workplace, but what about remote workers? After the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses were forced to adapt to a new normal, with more employees working from the comforts of their homes. And as more people continue to prefer working from home, this may leave business owners wondering if remote workers need the same compliance training.
Yes and no. While compliance training is a must for all employees, more things now need to be tackled with remote employees. Here are the things compliance training should consist of for remote workers.
- Harassment
Everything that happens typically face-to-face is now done via phone, email, or online conferences. Even then, the standards for respectful and professional behavior stay the same. However, there are also new things to consider.
For instance, a few employees may not be tech-savvy and have difficulty installing and navigating the new collaboration software. Colleagues must be patient and respectful rather than make comments regarded as bullying or harassment.
- Timekeeping
Hourly employees usually clock in and out during face-to-face working conditions. This must be followed even online.
When you and your employees track the precise amount of time spent at work, the business receives the records required to ensure all employees are paid adequately. Sure, it’s easier to take the dog for a walk or perform a few household chores, but this is considered as non-working time and must be communicated.
However, employees should still find a work-life balance and avoid going overtime because they have more time to spare at home. Let them know that overtime is much appreciated but shouldn’t be encouraged to prevent burnout.
- Using Devices
Many companies have policies on using company-issued devices, and these policies apply even to remote workers. If you use employer-issued laptops, phones, or tablets, any policy limitations communicated should be applied. For instance, if specific websites or social media is not allowed in the office, it still applies during working hours when at home.
- Handling Confidential and Sensitive Information
Companies like True Office Learning define and cover what is considered confidential and sensitive information. It’s crucial to protect such information, especially in the remote work environment.
Ensure that your employees consider what is on their computer screen and what may be heard in their homes or wherever they work. If employees have to step away from their devices, they must remain mindful of any information they leave on the screen that no one else from outside the company should see.
Remind employees that they can protect such information by locking their devices when not in use. Also, remind them to be mindful during meetings to prevent household members from overhearing anything they shouldn’t.
Wrapping It Up
Regardless of whether your employees work in the workplace or at home, they still require compliance training. With online compliance training, it helps businesses maintain compliance programs and reap the benefits it offers.
