10 Key Business Outsourcing Ingredients – Chapter 10
Published by: Greymouse Marketing | 5 December, 2022
By discussing your needs with the outsourcing organisation, you can come up with several ways of monitoring your virtual team.
One of the common practices today is to install cameras where your virtual works. I find this option quite interesting as you can keep an ‘eye’ on your virtual team. But it is up to your outsourcing company to offer you this option. You might not use it all the time; however, when you wish to call them, it would be nice to know that they are at their desk and able to talk to you.
If this is not an option with your outsourcing organisation, you manage them by way of reporting or by communicating on Skype, Lync or email.
Be prepared to share and learn from the outsourcing company you are working with. An open mind will allow you to quickly embrace the proven systems they have in place and adapt them to your business.
| • | Enjoying the relationship |
| • | Patience and consistency in training |
| • | Listening to what your virtual team is asking |
| • | Helping as much as you can in creating the documentation needed, enabling them to deliver a top-notch service |
| • | Having the confidence that it will work and that you will gain the time and free-dom to work on growing the business |
Example – Client Feedback
“We needed someone who would use our systems manual, follow the sales procedure, organise the parties and corporate events, and respond to customers’ questions using our standard answer sheets. They need to be familiar with the internet, professional when answering the phone, responding to e-mails, able to use SMS and can assist our customers. While it sounds simple, it requires focus dedication and above all accuracy.
Managing remote resources is like managing a household full of teenagers.
iPhone, FB, Skype, Viber and other apps allow both parties to have better communication. Use the tools given and available to make sure the end result is achieved for your business. Be flexible and have respect for each other. The tasks will get done and your stress level will reduce.
Be firm but fair and care for your remote resources as much as you would care for your teenager. Oh also remember to have fun with them and at the same time to keep an eye on them!
Check their work, give them feedback, use tools such as ‘Time Doctor’ to make sure the jobs are getting done and remember to celebrate victories together. After all, you all work as a ‘team’ regardless of the location you are working from.
The sense of vision, observation, togetherness, informality, collaboration and trust is achieved by using electronic means such as teleconferences, regular meetings, and personal visits at least once a year. In today’s business environment, a high level of open communication is required to keep the balance.
Work is a thing you do, not a place you go
– Simon Le Compte
Have I spoken to my Virtual Resource?
Am I building a rapport with him/her?
Did I share the company vision?
