Mobile messaging platform Hike is adopting a Remote-first approach for throughout 2020 and will spend up to ₹40,000 per staffer to help them create a comfortable workspace at their home.

Aligned with Hike's culture of valuing employee wellbeing over everything else, Hike's move to a Remote-First culture would make working remotely their default modus operandi. However, for those looking to come to the office, it will remain an option with strict guidelines to ensure social distancing and sanitation.

To facilitate a seamless transition to 'Remote-First' and ensuring everyone is comfortable and productive when working from home, the messaging platform  has also announced multiple arrangements to help employees create a workspace at home.

Hike would be delivering an ergonomic office chair & a brand new compact office table to its employees residing in Delhi/NCR. For employees presently outside of Delhi/NCR Hike has announced a reimbursement of up to INR 10,000/- for the purchase of their own chair & table to set up their workstation at home. Additionally, Hike would also be supporting its employees for any internet and IT accessories requirements. These include accessories such as Monitors, USB Converters, Laptop riser & more, adding up to INR 40,000 per employee. 

Hike has also introduced some unique 'Remote-First' initiatives like no-meeting hours, Remote All-hands, and virtual recognition programs. Over and above logistics and processes, Hike has also introduced a manager's handbook internally aligned to its values to sustain their cultural priorities focusing on the following pillars:

Setting Expectations: As a manager, it's important to clearly convey your expectations. Be as specific as possible while using simple and concise language. "New normal" isn't necessarily a business world without working in an office, it's just a world where we focus on work instead of the office.

Trust: Emphasizing on the act of leading with trust as opposed to micro-management as can be the temptation in the absence of face to face interaction with the team.

Empathy: People that work remotely shouldn't feel like they need to be in the office to be fully informed. Flexibility and empathy are key. This is new for a lot of people, and these are without a doubt extenuating circumstances.

Hiring: The key to developing a thriving remote culture that is built on trust starts with finding the right people and setting the right expectations.

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