Virtual And Loving It Or Out Of Sight Out Of Mind?

Today's economy is challenging companies large and small to expand their understanding and tolerance for the virtual worker.  The need for companies to downsize has created a new workforce of virtual workers, freelancers, and new small business owners.  For the company it may be a great option but how can the virtual worker be sure that the same happens on their end.  The new buzz word for many virtual workers may quickly become relevance.

Relevance becomes important when you are working hard in the background but wondering if anyone even remembers that you exist.  Working in a corporate environment lends itself to collaboration just because you are working with others face to face everyday.  However, when your workplace is not located in the building you must work harder to be included in the day to day activities.

Why is this important?  A few reasons come to mind but the most prominent job related themes are inclusion and promotion.  Have you ever wondered why a co-worker is telling you all about the company party where they had the opportunity to meet the President face to face yet you didn't even get the memo.  Or, maybe you own your business.  Aren't you shocked when a client tells you how much they love a new service provider who does the same thing you do?

So what can you do to keep yourself in the loop with staff, managers, and clients when your workplace is not apparent to them?  Here a few tips to help you stay connected:

1.  Use the telephone.  Yes it's an old tool but one of the quickest ways to help people remember you.

2.  Use snail mail.  Ok, it's old too but a postcard can be worth a thousand meetings at the watercooler.

3.  Get out of your office.  When you can meet people for coffee or lunch so they will remember what you look like.

4.  Use video.  A simple webcam message can connect you with people who are miles away.

Really, no matter how you do it the key is to communicate with your connections in many ways and at many times in order to stay relevant in their world.

ABOUT NIKITA

Nikita Devereaux is a virtual assistant, professional speaker and Lean certified productivity consultant who inspires companies and individuals to work smarter - through the application of virtual teams and technologies. A working mom of three, Nikita shares her perspectives on getting more while managing work and family in the unique environment we call home. Learn more about at It's A Smart Decision.