Delivering training sessions to the remote employees can raise some challenges, especially because this activity is so much more than just using an online platform or creating a series of PowerPoint slides.We present below a list of the main challenges faced by the organizers of online training sessions and the solutions we propose for solving those challenges.&nbsp;1.&nbsp;Lack of face to face interaction and direct, live supervision of studentsLack of direct contact is one of the obstacles that people mention as affecting the success of any online activity. In the case of training sessions for remote employees, this can be the main concern, especially when both trainers and students lack the experience in teaching and learning online respectively.&nbsp;On the one hand, trainers fear that without direct, face to face supervision the students will have a hard time focusing, and that the learning process will suffer. On the other hand, the students might experience frustration at the lack of personal, face to face communication, supervision and help from the trainer.Proposed solution: create course content in different digital formats, including video, and try to organize sessions that are varied, that challenge the students to get involved in the proposed exercises, in team or individual games. This will stimulate the interest for the subject being taught, but at the same time will help students focus.Also, if you are a trainer or an online course moderator, pay attention to the messages received in the chat box of the online training platform and make sure to answer all the questions of the participants. Encourage your students to overcome their shyness and to get involved in the course throughout the training session, and also to have the courage to intervene if they need to say something.&nbsp;Make it a rule that the students should get involved and clearly state it at the beginning of each training sessions: knowing the rules from the beginning will ensure an optimal course delivery.2. Difficulty in accessing informationNew remote employees often find it very hard to obtain information from their colleagues and from third parties. They first have to find out to whom to address the question, then ask it and wait, sometimes a long time, before they receive an answer. When all communication is happening online, things can get even more complicated: it usually takes longer for people to respond to online communications than in the case of direct contact.&nbsp;Proposed solution: when employees take part in online training sessions, it is crucial for them to know exactly „what”, „when”, „why” and „how” things are going to happen. Therefore, all this information should be communicated in advance to the people who will participate in the online training session.&nbsp;Also, offer the participants detailed information and instructions on how to ask for help should they need it, not only before the training session but also during it, or after it is finished.3. Social isolationWorking remotely can make people feel isolated and lead them to yearn for the informal social contact that used to be the norm when working in an office. The good news is that online training sessions, if managed correctly, can compensate at least in part for this feeling of isolation.Proposed solution: for a group training session to be successful it needs to actively engage all participants, it has to encourage them to collaborate and work together, at the same time it must offer each participant the opportunity to express, and it must also include a Q&amp;A session.4. Technical glitchesTechnical difficulties and interruptions can occur even during on-site training sessions, even if all equipment has been thoroughly checked before the start of the session.&nbsp;Now think about all the things that can go wrong during an online training session: weak or unreliable internet connections, glitches in the functioning of the online learning platforms, power cuts, etc.&nbsp;Proposed solution: even if there is no 100% guarantee that technical difficulties won’t happen during their online training session, trainers must take this possibility into account, be prepared, and not panic if it does happen.By simply informing the participants that this might happen and by giving them specific instructions about what to do if it does (for example, you can ask them to resend you their e-mail addresses so that you can stay in contact, inform them about the estimated duration of the interruption and what to do once the problem is solved) you can convey the feeling that things are at least in part under control.5. Lack of feedbackAnother problem that has been raised about online courses is the difficulty of obtaining feedback from the course participants.This is why it is important to find the right tool for gathering feedback from the course participants not only about the content of the training session but also about the technical aspects (the software and the equipment used in order to deliver the content) of the course, the learning management system that has been selected. It’s the only method that we as trainers have in order to see „where”, „what” and „how” we can improve the courses we deliver.Proposed solution: use of online survey tools which have the advantage of eliminating the subjective factor from the research and which will ensure that participants (employees) feel free to give honest answers.&nbsp;It is important that the tool offers the participants the possibility to freely express any suggestions or ideas that they might have about how to improve the course and, why not, the company.&nbsp;Being able to freely and openly express their opinions and feelings towards the training sessions and the employer will allow the company to improve the training they offer to their employees, but also allows the employees to feel that they can better fit in and contribute to the culture of their organization.<h3>Additional recommendations for remote trainers</h3>If you are a trainer in your organization, don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the best results right from the first sessions of the online training program for the remote employees. You might need to put in a bit more effort, but with time, you will see that the results will start to show.We are all going through a period where the way we work is changing drastically, but we can all improve our work style over time. What matters is that we keep our cool regardless of the role we have within our organization: trainer, course participant or manager.In the last years, because we were all forced to transition from the traditional on-site learning system to ever more online courses, we had to adapt to the new system a lot quicker than we had planned. Often times, we will have to adapt on the go and as time goes by we will have to adapt to change in an ever more alert manner.But it’s only up to us to decide how we approach this new situation: as a hurdle and a permanent obstacle, or as an OPPORTUNITY that is constantly challenging us. Good luck!

Challenges in Training Remote Employees

<h3>In the context of the pandemic, Romania has witnessed a genuine explosion of remote work or teleworking, as defined in the Romanian legislation.</h3>According to Eurofound, in July 2020 the percentage of those working remotely in our country had reached 22 – 24%, as opposed to less than 1% in 2019.Work from home is regulated by the Labor Code under Title II, Chapter IX, and the rules for carrying out the activity by the employee in the teleworking regime are provided by Law no. 81/2018 on the regulation of the teleworking activity.If we refer to working from home, which can also have the characteristics of teleworking, it is closely related to one’s level of education, but also to the quality of housing.According to Eurostat 2019 statistics, almost 45.8% of the Romanian population lives in overcrowded housing, which in many situations makes it difficult for employees who work from home to perform their work duties.An alternative that can solve this inconvenience is the special arrangement of spaces meant for carrying out the daily activities of an employee or where different business meetings, workshops, seminars, etc. can take place. On the Romanian market, you can find such solutions, including through the <a href="https://pluria.co/">pluria.co</a> network.<h3>Health and safety at work, the remote system</h3>In most cases, remote work or teleworking involves tasks that are performed at the office through the use of electronic equipment. This is why it is considered that it poses very few risks from the perspective of health and safety at work (OSH). However, employers are required by law to ensure the protection of employees.The alternative offered by companies that provide spaces for remote work also presents the solution to problems related to OSH insurance. Those who make such spaces available could be an extra guarantee for compliance with optimal working conditions.If the employees’ work is not carried out in their own offices, according to Law no. No 81/2018, employers should at least assume the following obligations:<ul><li>to provide the means of information and communication technology and/or the safe work equipment necessary for work completion, unless the parties agree otherwise;</li><li>install, check and maintain the necessary work equipment, unless the parties agree otherwise;</li><li>ensure that the teleworker receives sufficient and appropriate training in the field of health and safety at work, in particular in the form of information and working instructions specific to the workplace and the use of display screen equipment: when hiring, when changing the place of work, when teleworking, when introducing new work equipment, when introducing any new working procedure;</li><li>to inform the teleworker about the provisions of the legal regulations, of the applicable collective labor agreement, and/or the internal regulation, in the field of personal data protection.</li></ul><h3>Obligations of employees</h3>In turn, the remote employee or the teleworker has at least the following obligations from an OSH perspective:<ul><li>to inform the employer of the work equipment used and of the current conditions where the telework activity is carried out and to allow him access, as far as possible, in order to establish and carry out the necessary health and safety measures at work, in accordance with the clauses of the individual employment contract, or to investigate the events;</li><li>not to change the work safety and health conditions of the places where the teleworking activity is carried out;</li><li>use only work equipment which does not pose a danger to his safety and health;</li><li>to carry out his activity in compliance with the provisions on the obligations of workers, as laid down in the Law on Safety and Health at Work 319/2006, as subsequently amended, as well as in accordance with the clauses of the individual employment contract;</li><li>to comply with the specific rules and restrictions established by the employer about the internet networks used or the use of the equipment made available;</li><li>to comply with the provisions of the legal regulations on the protection of personal data.</li></ul><h3>Additional recommendations for employers</h3>If you fall into this category, it is advisable to also perform the following actions:<ul><li>a re-assessment of remote workplace risks from an OSH perspective in case of changes in the respective location(s);</li><li>even if there have been no changes in remote work locations, it is good to check the OSH risk assessment by the specialist officer at least once a year;</li><li>before hiring a person in the remote system, make sure that the person in question also has the necessary skills for the specifics of this work;</li><li>make sure that those in decision-making positions have the necessary skills and resources to coordinate the work of subordinates from afar.</li></ul>Have you ever thought that giving employees the opportunity to work in spaces specially designed for remote work, located near their home, and equipped with everything they need, could be a way to motivate and loyalize them?[1] According to the format of the individual telework contract in 2020.&nbsp;

Job Safety in Case of Remote Work

I am a person interested in both: the mysteries of the deep past and the unlimited possibilities of the future. I am very optimistic by nature and I trust very much in the progress of the humanity. I am ready to get involved in activities helping people to adapt to the rapid changes that we all experience in the present and I do hope to bring my contribution as much as possible. I have a significant working experience doubled by a permanent wish to up-date, I love people, I fixe myself objectives that I can finalise and I have a sharp sense of humour.&nbsp;

Mariana Petcu

Former bank officer for 12 years, I am currently testing entrepreneurial remote work and a self-taught way of life which combines different hobbies.

Cristiana Tănase

It is said that a journey of a thousand miles starts with a simple step and mine started a few summers ago when I wanted to do something for myself, so I enrolled in a coaching programme.&nbsp;This gave me the chance to look at myself from a different perspective: little did I know that it would take me to a different career path, that of being a coach.&nbsp;

Patricea Pop

I’m a freelance writer working with startups and B2B tech brands for more than 7 years helping them produce long-form content that drives traffic and engages readers.&nbsp;

Patricia Borlovan

I’m Lucia Margan, a Digital Marketer specialized in SEO Content Writing, Copywriting and UX Writing with more than 7 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about producing high-value content that creates a true impact and organic growth.&nbsp;

Lucia Margan

I am Colombian and I am completely in love with my country and with what I do. Social Communicator and Master in Marketing Management with 8 years of experience in marketing, communications and content. I love creating, generating new ideas, writing and enjoying a good coffee. People say that without a north it is impossible to know where to go, and that is what I am focusing on: defining my personal and professional north to work every day to be a better person, to fulfil each one of my dreams and to give my team, my family and the people I know the best of me.&nbsp;

Natalia Gómez Almansa

Writing has always been my passion, and freelance is not a desire but a lifestyle. I value my freedom of choosing projects, timelines, and clients more than anything. I choose projects with which I resonate, and I always strive to leave an essential mark on them.&nbsp;

Oana Păuna

Octavia is a content marketer with a knack for storytelling that sells. She’s been at this for the past ten years and she admits that 1) she’s still got a lot to learn and 2) she drinks way too much coffee and works way too late. She plans on writing a book that will help her retire before 45 and grow chicken and lavender somewhere… away.&nbsp;

Octavia Drexler

Co-founder of Pluria and 7card, 10 years ago I left my career in management consulting for the uncertainties&nbsp; and excitement of entrepreneurship.

Andrei Crețu

Journalist by profession for over 10 years, but converted to public relations and human resources. I appreciate good manners and the art of communication in all its forms. I consider that elegance in behavior is the most precious prerogative, a principle according to which I guide my entire activity.

Delia Pușcă

I studied English and Spanish language and literature and translation was (and still is) my first love. Once, out of curiosity I took a job as a technical writer. Curiosity is what still drives me to look for fascinating stuff.

Lidia Mussato

I am a digital project manager with a 360° perspective, passionate about understanding what makes projects truly successful and why. I’ve worn every hat in the communication domain: from PR to marketing, from content writing to e-commerce growth strategies, from managing volunteers to business development, from CSR campaigns to product development and AI technologies.&nbsp;

Valentina Roman

Media consultant, with theatre roots, strains in television and fruits in brand and communication strategies.&nbsp;

Viorela Mihai

To accept. To know. To love. To learn. To receive. To return. To transform!

Ane-Mary Ormenișan

With over 10 years of experience in communication and content creation, I am passionate about design, writing and visual storytelling. I like to paint stories in words and pixels and discover people who inspire us.

Georgiana Petcu

hc_admin

I have been contributing and working in the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Latin America for 8 years. My expertise refers to startup creation, sales and consulting in entrepreneurship. Throughout my entrepreneurial career, I have had the opportunity to create two startups.&nbsp;

Mateo Marulanda

Freelancer, I am curious by nature, with a passion for writing and reading, especially in places that inspire me, which I choose according to mood and season: an intimate café, a blossoming park – as long as the battery holds – or a coworking space with modern facilities.

Laura Coman

My connection with writing started a long time ago when I was just a kid passionate about stories of all kinds. Just reading stories was not enough, so I started to build new ones and put them down on paper.&nbsp;

Rafaela Sava

Andreea has a Bachelor’s degree in Philology, she has published articles and reviews, and she writes about books that interest her.

Andreea Moldovan

IT-enthusiast, adventurous and nature lover, even remotely, I focus on my work the same way I focus on my passions.

Carmen Petrovici

Originally a legal consultant, but more of a communication person, passionate about writing, digitalization, social media, history and philosophy. At the same time, I don’t think there is a problem that can’t be solved with a good book or a series.

Diana Nădejde

I have always been passionate about the business world. The process of bringing together people that have never met before to give birth to an idea and grow it to become a global phenomenon is nothing short of a miracle. I always want to be close to those who have the courage, determination and vision to do it.&nbsp;In almost 20 years of work, I never stopped learning. I started with customer care and continued with program and project management, loved to work in business operations and did plenty of people management in all these roles. So I learned a lot about people: what motivates us, how work shapes our lives, what is good leadership, how we create teams that thrive and communities that endure. I realized that no matter how ambitious our goals are, at the end of the day, what is most important is being part of a company that we enjoy working for. And I decided that, wherever I find myself, I want to contribute to this feeling. So here I am, writing about it, hoping to make a difference in how we work.

Andreea Băloi

Young entrepreneur with vision and desire to bring about a change in the society. Passionate about acting and writing. I am focusing on building, I strongly believe in the human potential, I am trying to deeply understand every situation I encounter in a project and to infuse positive energy in each human interaction.

Ana Maria Vâlcu

I believe in the power of human connections and how storytelling can turn strangers into loyal brand advocates. That's why, through my role as Digital Marketing Specialist at Pluria, I develop strategies that speak through valuable content and enable brand development on digital platforms.

Betsy Riatiga

Writing is my second nature, but working from anywhere in the world is probably my first. I explore remote work and the best places to do it, always in search of stories worth telling.

Anca Șerban

Who am I? It’s a philosophical question that we can leave for another time. But, I can tell you what I do and how I am. I’ve been a bilingual freelance writer for a year and a half, I started this journey believing faithfully that words have the power to change everything. Each brand keeps a story and knowing how to tell it is the secret to connecting with communities, at the end of the day words are the bridge between a project and people I write articles, blogs, microblogs, and copies. I’m passionate, enthusiastic, very organized, and curious. I spend my days in a cycle: I research, I write, I edit, I write (again) and between the breaks I prepare many cups of coffee, would you like a cup?&nbsp;

Valeria Uzcategui

Chatty is a freelance writer from Manila. She finds joy in inspiring and educating others through writing. That’s why aside from her job as a language evaluator for local and international students, she spends her leisure time writing about various topics such as lifestyle, technology, and business.

Chatty Garrate

Experienced HR and Communication professional with extensive experience in the banking, IT, and fintech sectors, with experience M&amp;A and a PhD in HR. A former cellist and avid music enthusiast.I’m driven by curiosity and embracing&nbsp;an optimistic approach. I believe that open communication and continuous learning create an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to reach their full potential. I also strongly believe in a climate of mutual trust where ideas flow. Knowing that daily life can be a dizzying carousel, I strive to find a balance between intensity and fulfillment, without it becoming overwhelming.