Admin's Assistant

Working in a Virtual World

With the availability of advanced technology, the work environment is evolving from a rigid in-house business structure to a more relaxed, virtual office. Companies are tapping into a new idea of what working in an office really means. Virtual assistants, teleconferences and telecommuting are quickly becoming the trend. So, how does this all work for companies?

It's becoming easier to remain connected to your office without leaving home. Many employees are now able to telecommute by remotely accessing their office computer from their home computer or connecting directly with the office network. Working from home has been shown to boost employee morale because it allows employees to work in a comfortable environment while eliminating the stress of rush-hour traffic. Telecommuting is also good for small companies that can't afford an office space.

However, many businesses have been hesitant to embrace telecommuting. Although telecommuting may help employees work harder with fewer office distractions, it can also make it easier to not work. For some, motivation through competition among co-workers is necessary for a productive day.

As it becomes less essential for employees to actually commute to an office every day, a new type of employee has emerged. Administrative assistants are a vital part of a business, but some businesses don't have the money or the space to hire someone full time. To meet this need, employers have started to hire virtual assistants to help them with everyday administrative work. Virtual assistants can do a variety of tasks from basic office administration to specialized work depending on their background and certifications. With a virtual assistant, small businesses can focus on growing their business while projecting a professional image.

Business travel has become more difficult and costly. Even with the price of airline tickets on the rise, airlines are continuing to tack on more fees and reduce the number of flights. These changes have forced many businesses to cut down on travel. For some, teleconferences work just fine, but for those companies that want a more face-to-face type of interaction, videoconference rooms are becoming popular. These rooms, filled with computers, cameras and television screens, allow people from all over the country and the world to communicate in a meeting as if they were actually all in the same room.

Of course, these types of rooms and meetings won't make face-to-face meetings obsolete; they just may occur less frequently. Some business interactions require a more personal touch. Many big business deals have been made during business dinners or on golf courses. Personal touches go a long way to help potential customers or business partners feel at ease with the big decisions they're making. Businesses should embrace the virtual world, but they should also continue to ask themselves if business would be improved by real interaction.

Has your office made a jump into the virtual world? How was your job affected?