In today’s business environment the desire and need to work remotely is growing. Planning and implementing now the right tools for your business to work remotely will increase transitional success, optimize productivity, reduce stress, and minimize costs.
There are many factors to consider – with each company and organization having different needs, but here are the Chamber’s suggestions for basics to get you started.
Tip! Below this article you will find additional resources including names of programs and apps, and Chamber members who may be able to assist you.
Virtual Phone Calls/Meetings/Conferences
Keep relationships strong with video-style calls and meetings (think Zoom.) Viewing a person’s smile, facial expressions and body language go a long way in maintaining good professional relationships. Multiple people from numerous locations can be participating simultaneously, and sessions can often be recorded for future reference. (See resources below.)
VPNs
If your company uses its own network ask your employer if you can utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to remotely access the company’s network.
File Sharing
Eliminate many challenges of working remotely by storing your files and photos on cloud services. Doing so allows you to access them from other computers/devices as long as you have access to the internet. Tip: Avoid unsecured wi-fi when accessing company files, emails, etc. And be sure your anti-virus software is always up to date. (See resources below)
Sending Large Files
Not everyone will be on your file sharing cloud service or company network. For those times when you need to send a file larger than your email capacity consider sending via a large file program like Dropbox. This often happens when sending multiple photos. (See more resources below)
Team Organization
Businesses can organize projects requiring team effort with programs like Microsoft Project or Trello. Create projects with to-do lists, resources, notes, and more. View progress of tasks, and updates will sync across all devices.
Remote Desktop
Access your computer as if you are in front of it. (See resources below)
Remote Policy
Establishing a clear understanding of employee and employer responsibilities, as well as a plan of work will go a long way in creating a successful work remote program.
Chamber member Jeff Chapman with Greenlight Techs, LLC shares his favorite resources…
“If your work allows you to work from home, or if you are too sick to go into work, here are a couple of things to think about. Most of these options work best if you plan ahead! If you have an IT department, ask what they can do for you!”
1. File Sharing – Work on all your files and have them already updated when you get back in to work. Or being able to work on the same file with your colleagues. Possibly at the same time!
a. One Drive
b. Drop Box
c. Google Drive
2. Meeting/Conferencing – Talk to your colleagues and get things figured out. Being able to share computer screens make these a better option than a phone call.
a. Skype
b. Google Hangouts
c. Facebook Messenger
3. Remote Desktop – This is a great option if you can do it. All your files and programs from your work computer.
a. Log Me In
b. Windows Remote Desktop
Questions? Need assistance with a successful remote work plan? Contact these Chamber Members for more information:
Greenlight Techs, LLC
CMIT Solutions of Bothell, Lynnwood & Seattle North
HR Kinections
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