Remotely Teleworking during COVID-19

Teleworking During COVID-19

As part of our ongoing effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, our return of employees to the Kent State University campuses will continue to be managed in phases to allow us to mitigate the spread of the virus and best ensure the health and safety of all.

Prevention & Strategy

Our strategy for spring semester, Jan 4 – May 12, will be a continued effort to maintain a low density of on-campus presence of students as well as employees. Supervisors are asked to remain flexible in permitting remote work to minimize on-campus population. 

Employees needed to maintain current campus operations will report to work. Employees who can work remotely should continue to work remotely. Employees should check with their supervisor to determine your work plan. 

Teleworking arrangements should be discussed regularly between supervisors and their staff and arrangements may need to be modified at any time. Because telework can periodically present some challenges for employees and supervisors as it relates to communication, work expectations, and feeling a sense of connectivity, we have provided several resources here from the very basic “how to” for supervisor and employees to other helpful resources, such as: technology checklist; teleworking plan and agreement form; health and wellbeing tips, and more. Let’s get started!  

1. What is teleworking and how does it differ from other forms of remote work? 
   Telework is a work arrangement in which some or all of the work is performed from home. In general, regular office hours are worked and deviations from that schedule require supervisor approval.
2. Which factors should departments/units consider when determining if telework is possible?
       - Operational requirements 
       - Security of work data 
       - Technological capabilities and equipment necessary to perform job duties 
       - Productivity 
       - Accuracy of records reflecting time worked, particularly by hourly paid employees.
3. Which job tasks are best suited for working remotely?
   Teleworking is easiest to implement for jobs or tasks that require reading, writing, research, working with data and talking on the phone. 
4. What’s most important to starting a productive teleworking arrangement? 
   ​​​​​​​Clearly outlined and executed teleworking arrangements can prove beneficial to employees and supervisors alike. Supervisors should articulate clear procedures regarding check-in times and hours of availability. This can be done with proper planning, including weekly email updates, staying connected via Microsoft Teams, online chat, etc.
5. Leave time practices
   Leave time does not change with telework. Sick leave should be reported for any doctor appointments or other qualifying matters provided for in Chapter 6 of Section 3342 of the Administrative Code. Any vacation leave should also be reported if you are taking vacation time during this telework period.

Important Reminder

It is important to remember, that we continue to be diligent in our actions to control the spread of the virus. Following the Flashes Safe Seven principles at all times, whether on or off campus, is still vitally important. Wherever you are, remember to wear a face covering, practice frequent handwashing, maintain physical distancing and avoid gatherings.

Considerations for supervisors supporting telework

Considerations for teleworking employees