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COURSE OF THE WEEK = Managing the Virtual Workplace (PD)

Apr 01, 2020

Managing the Virtual Workplace

Virtual workers and virtual teams are an essential part of today’s workforce. More than ever, people are using technology to work anywhere, anytime.

There are big benefits to today’s virtual workplace, but there can be big challenges, too. This one-day course will teach managers and supervisors how to prepare employees for the virtual workplace, create remote work programs, build virtual teams, leverage technology, and help team members be successful in the virtual workplace.

This one-day workshop will help you teach participants how to:

Create a virtual workplace strategy.
Develop, implement, and maintain virtual workplace programs.
Build a virtual team and lead them to success.
Plan and lead virtual meetings.
Use technology to support a virtual meeting.
Give team members the tools needed to be successful in the virtual workplace.

Audience

Supervisors/Team Leaders

Job Role Samples

Anyone that is responsible for the productivity of a virtual (remote) team.

Prerequisites

None.

What courses should customers take next?

What topics are covered?

Defining the virtual workplace
Creating virtual workplace programs
Technology tips and tricks
Building virtual teams
Leading virtual team meetings
Working with cross-cultural teams
Virtual leadership strategies

Glossary of Terms

Mobile workers are employees who work outside of the office and stay connected via technology.
These mobile workers work in a virtual workplace, which can be defined as a company that uses technology to conduct business in a variety of locations.
The terms telework and telecommuting are used to describe employees who work in an offsite location, usually from home.
Sometimes, traditional and/or mobile workers are brought together to form virtual teams: an interdependent group who works together towards a common goal but is not in the same physical location.

Checklist of Tools

Computers - Most virtual employees will need a computer of some kind, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop machine. Ensure that the device you choose supports the tools that the organization uses. It should also provide easy access to e-mail and other key services.
Video and Telephone Conferencing - Access to good quality, reliable video and telephone conferencing lines is crucial if mobile workers need to communicate with others.
Central Document Repository and Tracking - If your mobile workers will be working on important documents or files, having a central repository with version control should be part of your virtual workplace. This ensures the safety, accuracy, and accessibility of important files.
Team Website and Project Tracking Tools - If mobile workers will be working in virtual teams, a team website and project tracking tools can help everyone communicate progress, seek help, and stay connected.
Instant Messaging Applications - All virtual employees should be connected with instant messaging, preferably with an application that also supports video chat. All employees should be required to be signed into the instant messaging application and to be available during working hours.