Ahh remote work…love it or not, it’s a phrase we have all become very familiar with over the past couple of years. Even though conditions are far different than spring of 2020, many of us have continued to work from our bedrooms, even as companies open their office doors.
By the end of 2022, 25% of all professional jobs are likely to be remote and those opportunities are only expected to increase in 2023, according to Forbes.
At WordPop, we’re all virtual all the time, though we make an effort to schedule facetime with our clients on a regular – but not overly ambitious or exhausting – basis. We love working remotely and we think we know a thing or two about it. Here are our top 5 “Do’s” and “Don’ts” for helping clients through the computer screen.
DO…
DO add users to content platforms where approvals are required
For example, we love that the graphic design platform, Canva, lets you invite multiple users to review specific pieces of content. When we create social media graphics for our clients, they can easily review and add comments to our work.
DO agree upon clear approval deadlines and approval processes
Clear expectations for both parties help you get the green light on items faster! For example, we aim to have all social media content completed 2-3 weeks before the content goes live, and fully approved 1-2 weeks before it lights up your screens!
DO utilize video chat for introductions and to maintain connection
Sometimes a quick meeting is all you need to make sure you and your client are on the same page. A video chat is a great way to stay connected – but a phone call works, too!
DO decide how and when people can contact you
Do you prefer phone? Email? Text? Another teamwork platform? Assigning key forms of communication ensures that nothing is missed. We prefer email and phone calls.
DO remember the power of an organized email
Keep it concise and use a commanding subject line to let them know what you need as efficiently as possible. For example, if we need a client to review something, our subject line might say “Please review by 3/31”
DON’T…
DON’T forget about the efficiency of a phone call!
Sometimes a quick phone call accomplishes the same goal and takes half the time a video call would.
DON’T overuse video chat.
Zoom fatigue is real! Especially if your clients are also remote and have other meetings each day. Try to limit screen time unless it’s really needed.
DON’T open the door to availability across every possible channel, unless you are truly monitoring and available
When collaborating with other teams, who all have unique workflows, you might find yourself juggling lots of communication platforms. Don’t oversubscribe or overcommit to too many project management platforms. Suggest other ways that you are available to them and be diligent about checking in that way!
DON’T forget to put your best foot forward on video calls
Know the company expectations of your clients and make sure to uphold standards, like a dress code, the same way you would when visiting their office.
DON’T be discouraged if communication isn’t immediately seamless
Be patient as you’re learning new processes and developing a communication style that works for you and your client.
At WordPop we can:
- Coordinate with press or influencers from any corner of the world.
- Adapt to time zone changes.
- Learn from each other’s experiences in different parts of the country or world all on the same day, which gives us perspective.
- Be flexible and adaptable when helping you or your business.
We’d love to work with you, too!