How can I build a culture for my remote workers?

Don't have remote workers?

Tough one. Define a minimum set of rules to be followed everywhere, first of all at Headquarters. If possible, visit them on a schedule basis.

Deliverables. If the employees can assist to all their meetings, and deliver in time, they should be able to work from wherever they want to.

They will have their own unique culture. However, it helps to have a group chat that connects local and remote employees. It works well to have one chat room for work topics and one chat room for sharing jokes, new, memes, etc. Also include your remote employees in any group events you can. If your local team has a movie day, give the remote team a movie day, too, etc. Communication and consistent leadership will be your best tool, but your remote team will and should develop it's own version of your culture to fit with their situation and location.

keep them in the loop

Lay out the ground rules from day 1. Explain fully what is expected. Have a conference call or go to meeting weekly to keep everyone engaged and on target.

Giving them the ability to take part in community building activities and allowing open communication regardless of where they work is key.

make work fun

Communicating with them daily and follow through when they need your help. Treat them as if they are part of larger organization.

Make them feel like they are part of the team. Include them in all communication and specifically ask for their input or questions during online meetings. Make sure they have an opportunity to meet their onsite colleagues in person.

Host occasional face to face meetings