Working online is something that we’ve all experienced. Whether that’s full-time, part-time or just checking your email while taking a sick day, the feeling is the same. Questions about keeping in touch, sharing files and staying motivated can all pop into your head.
Being a rock star team member can happen anywhere, not just at the office. If you’re working remotely and want to do your best while sitting at the coffee shop, go for it! Of course, you’ll need a few good tools up your sleeve, and that’s where Toolkit Tuesday comes in. Each of the tools in today’s roundup have already been tested and approved by team Belle.
So this week, check out our go-to tools for virtual teams and get inspired for the next time you’re away from the office!
4 Tools for Virtual Teams
Every tool in our roundup has actually been mentioned on the blog before, so you can read our in-depth posts for more ideas and information. Hopefully you’ll find a must-have tool for your own team!
1.) Sococo
Would you describe yourself as a visual person? For some of us, actually seeing ourselves (and our team members) in an office environment is motivation to stay on track and helps us feel more connected to our co-workers. Sococo is a virtual tool that gives each team member their own online office and supports video conferencing. It’s perfect for team meetings, group discussions and letting your team members know what’s going on in your world (lunch break, projects, etc).
2.) Slack
An online office environment can be tricky because you can’t run over to a team member’s office to share a joke or an idea. Enter Slack.The name might not sound like it, but Slack has been helping us stay organized and on task. You can chat with your team or discuss projects with individuals. Plus, if you’re like team Belle, you’ll create additional chats for things like workout tips and industry news. Between hashtags and different channels for each topic, you can easily keep conversations organized.
3.) MileIQ
Sometimes working virtually happens because you’re on the road traveling to a client, conference or meeting. When you’re driving and need to keep your mileage in order, try out MileIQ! This app will track your miles and keep them organized for accounting.
4.) UberConference
When a video chat with Sococo isn’t an option, it may be time to move to a conference call. After switching providers more than a few times, we found UberConference! UberConference is a conferencing service where you can call in using your computer or phone. The tool is great because you can actually see who is on the call if you’re viewing on your computer. Plus you can customize your hold music which is a nice personal touch.
What are your favorite tools for virtual teams? Is there a tool from the Belle blog that wasn’t included in our roundup? Let us know in the comments!
