Intentional Communication for the Virtual Office

One of the most popular recommendations as your business and practice grows is to outsource. The most effective way to do this is typically through hiring a virtual assistant or consultant to complete tasks you no longer have the ability to do. 

Some common challenges when working remotely is lack of immediate access, lack of consistent or frequent communication, and challenges of miscommunication when using email and text. 

One of the things that I have found to be most helpful is to ensure regularly scheduled Zoom meetings to discuss projects, check in with the individual and any challenges they might be having or frustrations with the workflows, a time for them to ask questions or make suggestions for changes. 

Having meetings scheduled at regular intervals helps ensure that healthy communication continues to flow. 

Since you don't have time for more personal check-ins that would naturally unfold in the office, it is important to build that time to connect within your meetings. 

Have clear expectations for what is needed and when to complete job tasks in a timely manner. Sometimes, it is leadership that is not passing along the information needed for the assistant to do their job in a timely fashion. I am totally guilty of this and that is why I am sharing this information with you.

When we don't produce deliverables on time for our team to complete their part, is lead to feelings of frustration and resentment. Establishing Clear deadlines for each task, with some checks and balances to ensure they are being completed in a timely manner, will help everyone feel their time and abilities are being respected. 

Employing clarifying questions to ensure that we understand one anotheris essential. It is also helpful to send a short follow up email documenting the key points of the conversation. 

I hope you find these tips helpful and effective. If you are in need of support in developing your practice we are here to help. Send an email to me with your inquiry.