Staff writer Eunice Nisbett
You have set up your virtual business and are ready to go. Here are some tips for getting to work:
1. Mentally Get Ready for work. Some persons advocate that you should get dressed for work at the start of the business day, even though you are at home. If that’s what works for you, fine. I
get ready for work mentally. I just love being able to work in whatever I feel
like – that is part of what being virtual means to me. When it’s time for a
meeting away from base, I dress formally.
2. Answer the Telephone Professionally during working hours. If you cannot
afford to invest in a separate line for your business at this time, do ensure
that you always answer the phone professionally during working hours. Doing so will also remind your friends that your are working.
3. Set Limits. Knowing that you are working from home will lead some to believe that you are available to attend to their every whim and fancy. Know when and how to say ’No.’
4. Stay Abreast of Technology. There are a number of resources and tools available to increase your effectiveness and efficiency. Be aware of these. Develop your skills in using these tools to create and share knowledge and to provide services that will empower your clients.
5. Collaborate Virtually. As a virtual worker you will be called upon to be part of virtual teams. Recognize cultural differences. Learn to work independently and seamlessly while promoting your brand. Remember, there is power in presence – even online.
Typical virtual office setup
6. Hone your Entrepreneurial Skills. Develop your administrative skills for the day to day running of your business and to align your activities with goals. One of the greatest challenges for the entrepreneur can be maintaining records. Use at least a simple spreadsheet template to record transactions. The time you take to record you transactions will eliminate the headache of having to trace details later on. Stay motivated and be resilient.
7. Service, Service, and then More Service. Having provided training in customer service in the region, I know that our service tends to lag. Let your service differentiate you as a virtual entrepreneur. Be proactive in meeting your clients’ needs and build rapport.
Working within the comfort of your home, doing something you enjoy can be exhilarating. Virtual is global and it is the new frontier for the Caribbean. The possibilities are endless.
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