Unless you’ve been under a rock for the past five years, you’ll have noticed the rise of VR. In fact, there’s a high chance that it is in the workplace right now completing tasks. Don’t worry because the robots aren’t formulating an uprising just yet. Virtual technology software exists even if owners and CEOs are unaware. For example, chatbots are artificial intelligence programs which operate with little input. Merely regulate the settings and let them do their thang.
Another tactic is to hire people from far and wide. After all, international recruitment is an effective way to boost standards and limit gaps. To keep costs down, you let them work from home. No boss needs the added pressure or overheads, especially when telecommunicating is as efficient. By all means, operate from your bedroom. It doesn’t matter as long as the projects get completed on time.
Negatives do exist though, and the main one is a lack of a connection. Some people are happy to be lone rangers with zero interaction whatsoever. However, even the Lone Ranger had Tonto. Thankfully, the right methods and equipment make it possible to manage employees who live tens of thousands of miles away. Here’s what to remember.
Invest In Tech
In the past, bosses would have to speak face-to-face with employees to communicate. At the least, a phone call would have been necessary. Today, there are enough instant messaging services to keep everyone happy. WhatsApp has become the industry gold-standard at the moment, yet there is Hangouts and Facebook Messenger. And, that is without mentioning the video-conferencing apps such as Skype.
A plethora of resources exist and businesses should have them on hand. But, don’t pat yourself on the back for downloading the apps. The key is to use them semi-frequently to maintain a strong team ethic. For example, conduct meetings via a video calling application. Sure, it’s as easy to speak via email but it’s nice to see their body language and gauge their answers. Plus, virtual employees love to put a name to a face.
Remember that you are the role model setting the example. So, if you use videos for meetings big and small, workers will feel as if they can follow suit.
Pick Up The Phone
Regardless of new-age media, the old equipment still has a place in our hearts. There is a reason for that – it’s useful. Sure, the tech geeks will harp on about a new processor with 8-bit RAM and a 2.4lt engine, but they are nerds. No offense to these men and women, but it’s important to see their lack of objectivity!
Phones are by no means modern or cool or exotic. It seems rewarding to use social media and video-conferencing for these exact reasons. However, a phone call is direct and to the point and it allows both parties to thrash out issues. When someone has a problem, it’s not a good idea to tweet a direct message or email them because it’s impersonal.
Speaking on the phone to your virtual services provider shows an element of caring. Some people wouldn’t even bother addressing a concern in the first place. If there is nothing wrong, a phone call is still a fantastic way to keep up to date with their plans. There is nothing worse than missing a deadline thanks to a lack of communication.
Believe In Interactive Content
As far as content goes today, videos and images are the joint kings. People are less bothered about reading reams of text on a page. It’s boring and it hurts their eyes. More importantly, it isn’t as enjoyable because nothing is engaging about the post. Vids and pics are visually pleasing and fun to look at from a marketing point of view.
It is possible to use advertising tricks on the virtual team in the same way you would with customers. Don’t see this as sneaky because you’re not trying to sell them anything. Instead, it’s vital that they feel as if they are connected to the company. Take a simple “Meet Us” page. Images of the employees who work for the firm are visible to anyone who visits the site. Names are a wise choice, too.
Why? It’s because they tell a bigger story. Workers see this and instantly see themselves as part of a group. They don’t need to work in the office or engage in the daily banter – they’re there in spirit.
Leverage Social Media
Again, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram et al. are platforms mainly used for targeting shoppers. Interact with them online and they will more than likely choose the company as a partner. All it takes is a basic gesture, such as a retweet, or a funny post to grab their attention. Twitter wars are famous and instantly raise awareness of the brand. Does anyone remember the “war” between the Clown, the Colonel and the King?
That was rather cheesy. #NotLovingIt #NoBunIntended
— KFC India (@KFC_India) October 31, 2017
While the Clown & Colonel debate, the King relishes the #Whopper#ItDoesntMatter #BurgerEmoji #BurgerGate
— BurgerKingIndia (@burgerkingindia) October 31, 2017
Flipping the dynamic is essential, as in the same way as using interactive media. After all, remote workers aren’t in the office and don’t receive much feedback or praise. The excellent thing about social media is that you can tag anyone who has an account. So, don’t be scared to advertise the great and the good of the company and give a shout out to the culprits.
When they see it, they will feel happy and vindicated as well as loyal. A weekly email blast with examples of strong pieces of work is also effective.
Organize A Get-Together
Although tech has got the bases covered, there is no substitute for meeting in person. Speaking face-to-face allows everyone to laugh and joke and connect on a different level. Of course, this is impossible when everyone is miles away and is only connected via the internet. The solution is to organize an event with the sole purpose of bringing employees and employers together. Hire a function room, pay for the bar, and let the guests circulate. Covering travel expenses may be necessary too.
Your team may be far away but do they have a group mentality? If the answer is no, what can you do to change the atmosphere?
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