How to Build a Remote Culture That Actually Works

Remote culture doesn’t happen by accident. In this Kaizen Time conversation, Eric Joern breaks down what it takes to build a team that works well together even when they’re nowhere near the same office. From intentional communication to real human connection, this is how to make remote work work.

Key Takeaways

• Remote culture works when it’s intentional. Employees need structure, communication, and clarity to feel included from anywhere.

• Relationships still need real connection. Remote teams thrive when they have periodic in-person time for training and events.

• Flexibility increases performance. Measuring outcomes instead of desk time gives people room to work the way they work best.

• Remote-first hiring expands talent and reach. You’re no longer limited by geography when the systems and expectations are solid.

• Clear accountability keeps remote teams aligned. When people know how success is measured, remote work becomes sustainable.

Episode Highlights

• Eric explains how Kaizen shifted into remote work during COVID and why the team never fully returned to a traditional office model.

• Mark and Eric dig into why local client growth has slowed and how a national footprint changed their hiring approach.

• They walk through how Microsoft Teams became the firm’s virtual workspace for both work and social interaction.

• Eric shares how remote employees stay connected through firm events, training, and sponsored travel back to the office.

• The conversation shifts to trade shows and why they still matter for meeting clients face-to-face.

• They wrap up with what remote employees need in order to stay engaged, productive, and aligned with the firm’s culture.

Related Resources

How to Foster a Team That Motivates Itself

The Truth About Return-to-Office Mandates (video)

Behind the Interview: What We Look For in Young Hires

Is Your Hiring Process Costing You Great Candidates?

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