The Effects of Remote Supervision on Employees: Case Finnish Red Cross (FRC) Fundraisers

Abstract

Global landscape has transformed significantly in terms of where, when and how the work is carried out. Thanks to advanced technology, organizations can offer flexible working patterns for employees. In particular, employees no longer need to be at the same location as their managers to function. This however has changed the way of leading and managers would like to understand employees’ experience of the new leadership style. This study therefore discovers the underlying reasons behind the effects of remote supervision on employees, with a focus on the face-to-face fundraisers of the Finnish Red Cross (FRC) in Vaasa city, who are managed remotely by a coordinator locating in Oulu. The theoretical framework is developed based on the following themes: Research concept, remote supervision, employees under remote supervision and management strategies. Qualitative approach was used in this research to conduct exploratory interviews. There were three participants in total and the interviews were held in person with a semi-structured questionnaire in order to encourage the interviewees to elaborate their thoughts and opinions further. Findings included the advantages and challenges of the FRC’s fundraisers in Vaasa when they work independently from their coordinator. While autonomy was agreed as the biggest benefit, the lack of face-to-face communication were found as the most critical problem that the interviewees face. The results also indicated that the interviewees have strong and positive connection with the coordinator and instead, they are more concerned about the relationship with the team leader.