Management competencies for distance work modalities in Cuba

Abstract

The purpose of this article was to determine the training needs of Cuban worker managers in distance work modalities, based on the identification of key competencies for superior performance. As a methodological strategy, the quantitative approach was selected, with a  descriptive exploratory design. The instrument used was the Telework and Distance Work Questionnaire, in its versions for managers and workers. We worked with a sample of 24035 workers and 3991 bosses, for a total of 28026 subjects. The results showed the identification of eight key competencies in those who manage teleworkers; and six for those who manage distance workers. The training needs of managers refer to: the capacity to plan and organize work, effective guidance to subordinates, strengthening team cohesion, the capacity to motivate and inspire their subordinates, and skills and abilities in the use of ICT. The main conclusions are that managers of teleworkers/distance workers have labor competencies that allow superior performance, although some should be trained to a greater extent. As a fundamental recommendation, the search for new training alternatives is suggested, since they are not part of the traditional training plans.