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Remote WorkerThe coronavirus outbreak has led more companies to implement remote work arrangements in their organization. Forbes reports that 40% of companies have increased their reliance on video conferencing tools to fulfill their jobs since the virus has started spreading.

If your company is interested in implementing a remote work policy, we can help guide you through the process. The switch seems easy on its face, but remote work isn’t just about a change in location. To effectively manage remote employees, companies must utilize the right tools and strategies. If you’re wondering how you can transition to remote work, here’s what you need to know.

Give your teams the resources they need to work from home

Unlike office workers, remote employees may not have access to proper tools at their home. As an employer, you need to determine the resources that they need to enhance team productivity. Consider the following:

Internet connection

While most employees have access to the Internet, they may not have enough bandwidth to participate in long online meetings and video conferences. You could invest in data plans and set aside an allowance for internet plans.

Webcam

Employees must have webcams with a minimum of 720-pixel resolution. Although most newer laptops have a built-in webcam, you could provide a stipend to employees without it.

Headset and microphone

Your employees will likely need to video chat with each other. Most workers have a headset or headphones with a mic that could be used for audio listening only. It’s best not to assume that workers have access to a quality microphone.

Ensure your teams can collaborate remotely

The number of tools for tasks like email marketing, accounting and management that your company uses may surprise you. Scoro reports that companies like Apple, Uber and Facebook use over 140 business tools each. While every team has its own set of software and products, you must ensure that each is available for work-from-home employees. Here is a list of tools to consider:

Business email

If your team uses Gmail, connecting to it remotely won’t be difficult. However, it you use a service like Microsoft Outlookor Intermedia Exchange Email that require set up before logging in, you’ll want to make sure to install these on personal laptops before employees go remote. Otherwise, it can be a hassle to try to get things working over the phone.

Digital workspaces

Online workspaces, like Notion or Trello, help teams write, collaborate and plan. Teams can create boards, calendars and list views to manage their tasks and projects. This type of tool can help keep teams on track no matter where they are in the world.

Video conferencing

We recommend our VidyoConnect™ solution. This solution is a real-time video solution that delivers complete work at home engagement capabilities, including meetings, customer appointments, board meetings, presentations, & training environments. Make sure your employees can access whichever video conferencing software you use from their home computers.

Build a collaborative remote work culture

Creating a collaborative remote work culture is a must for work-from-home teams. A study found that companies that had a collaborative culture were five times more likely to have high performance. However, a collaborative remote work culture doesn’t happen spontaneously. Companies must implement guidelines and policies to ensure that teams communicate with each other, especially in remote work arrangements.

For example, team leaders or managers can schedule several video conferences to make sure every member is on the same page. Also, they can use messaging apps and find common working hours for employees that need to accomplish tasks together.

Feedback is equally important, so try to schedule one-on-one meetings to help members improve their performance. Talking with individuals also gives them time and space to address any questions or issues that they are going through, and makes them feel more supported even when working from home.

Tips for remote work during a pandemic

The COVID-19 threat has led to a lot of uncertainty in working arrangements. Fortunately, technologies and tools have enabled employees to work from the comforts of their own home. If you’re not sure how to jumpstart a remote work culture, these tips should help you make the transition smoother.

If you’re looking for a top-notch video conferencing service for your growing number of remote employees amid the coronavirus outbreak, we highly recommend using Vidyo. Sign up to launch video meetings for free, or check out our plans and pricing.

 

Click here to receive a FREE temporary Vidyo license. Connect remotely at no cost – no strings attached.

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