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Expert Answers to Biz Questions
Listen in! Pick up some expert advice to a reader's question that we selected from CyberSchmooz.
The Best Advice For Running a Business Remotely
Are you a business owner considering transitioning to remote operations? Or are you getting ready to launch a new remote business? Running a business remotely is not only possible; it's smart.
More people are working out of their homes than ever before. Even before the Coronavirus outbreak, many CEOs and entrepreneurs were considering telework as an increasingly viable option for their employees and themselves.
When people work from home, companies can save money on expenses such as office space rent, facilities management, office furniture and appliances, and more.
If you're feeling uncertain about how to thrive as a remote business, here are some invaluable tips.
Make Sure You Have Help
Just because your employees won't work with you in-person doesn't mean that managing your staff is any easier.
Many first-time remote business owners will try to juggle everything themselves. Remember, you're already saving money by not having a brick and mortar office, so you can afford a virtual assistant.
Think about your strengths. Maybe you're great with reaching out to potential clients but are clueless about social media or bookkeeping. Hire qualified individuals to help in the areas where you lack confidence.
Develop Your Web Presence
When you don't have a physical location for clients or customers to visit, your online presence is all the more important. Make sure your website is crisp and up to date. Use SEO tactics to ensure your website is easy to find.
You should also focus on identifying your target audience. Don't underestimate the power of market research. Finding out who your audience is and what their spending habits are is crucial to a remote business's success.
Market research during Coronavirus will show you promising trends, as more consumers than ever are shopping online.
Regularly Check In With Your Employees
Once you've hired your team, you'll need a strategy for monitoring their process, since they won't be sitting next to you in an office. Set clear expectations by documenting your preferred process for tasks.
Routine check-ins are important, especially for remote businesses. You should check in with your employees regularly, at least weekly, via video call. This will encourage constant communication and keep your employees focused and on task.
Outsource Order Fulfillment
If you run an online store through a service such as Shopify, you should consider letting a third party handle your shipping. It will allow you to complete an exponentially larger amount of orders and give you time to focus on more important things.
Create an Optimal Work Environment
Working from home is an incredible opportunity to have control over your work environment. You don't need to settle for white walls or harsh fluorescent lighting. Whatever your preferred aesthetic is, make sure your space is clean, quiet, and comfortable.
It's a good idea to keep your work environment separate from where you eat, relax, or socialize. Having a separate room for your work will help you set clear boundaries for yourself and stay focused.
Make a Schedule and Stick to It
Some people find it much more appealing to work at home as opposed to in a conventional office, but they still have to be accountable for the hours they need to put in.
All you need to do is create a schedule for you and your employees, and then stick to it. Regular team check-ins will increase accountability. Maybe you have marketing meetings every Monday morning and ship new orders every Tuesday and Thursday. Whatever works for you, stick to it.
Conclusion
Business owners today have all the tools they need to run a business remotely. With a little focus and ingenuity, you'll likely find that running a business remotely is the best idea you ever had.
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