4 Ways to Effectively Support Remote Employees

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MRAA

Your remote team can thrive IF you set them up for success. Explore 4 practical ways marine dealers can better support remote employees, both in and out of the field.

Why Supporting Remote Employees Matters

Remote work is now part of the norm, even in the marine industry. From sales people on the water to technicians working off-site and service reps at boat shows, dealership staff are often operating outside of the office.

That’s why it’s critical to give your team the tools and support they need to stay productive, connected, and valued – no matter where they’re working.

Here are four proven strategies to effectively support remote employees and help them thrive.

1. Use Video Conferencing to Stay Connected

Face-to-face communication still matters – even if it’s virtual.

According to GetVoIP, 87% of remote employees feel more connected and involved with team projects when using video conferencing. And Digital in the Round found that 90% of people find it easier to get their point across via video.

Tips:

  • Schedule regular team meetings via Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet
  • Turn on video to enhance nonverbal communication
  • Use screen sharing to walk through reports, dashboards, or training

Result: Better engagement, clearer collaboration, and a stronger sense of team culture.

2. Equip Your Team with a Cloud-Based DMS

If your team can’t access your dealership management system (DMS) on the go, they’ll struggle to do their best work.

Can your staff:

  • Log a sale from the boat?
  • Write or update work orders on a mobile device?
  • Access customer records off-site?

If not, it’s time to invest in a cloud-based DMS. These systems allow employees to:

  • Log in from anywhere
  • View and manage real-time data
  • Work efficiently with just a browser and an internet connection

Bonus: Remote-accessible tools improve productivity and job satisfaction.

3. Make Time for Social Connection

Without breakroom chats or casual hallway conversations, remote employees can feel isolated.

Here’s how to bring your culture to them:

Encourage Informal Interactions:

  • Start meetings with a few minutes of small talk
  • Celebrate birthdays and milestones virtually

Host Social Events:

  • Hold virtual coffee breaks or happy hours
  • Create fun chat channels for hobbies, pets, or industry news

Schedule 1-on-1 Check-ins:

  • Use this time to ask about life outside of work
  • Provide space for feedback or support

When employees feel seen and heard, engagement increases.

4. Avoid Office Cliques: Include Everyone

If part of your team works in-office while others are remote, unintentional cliques can form.

How to prevent it:

  • Rotate meeting facilitation roles across locations
  • Directly invite remote team members to share input
  • Be mindful of inside jokes or office-only references

Remote employees should feel just as valued as on-site staff. Inclusivity drives collaboration.

Build a Stronger Culture to Support Remote Employees

Supporting remote employees isn’t just about tech – it’s about trust, communication, and care. As your dealership adapts to modern work environments, these strategies will help ensure every team member can perform their best, wherever they are.

Note: this resource was published in May 2022 and has since been updated as of June 2025.

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