Practical Tips for Remote Working
Working remotely has become the new normal for advisors. While some advisors are already accustomed to working remotely, others are not as comfortable. The truth is, as human beings we are all different. Some advisors prefer to be around people and have face-to-face client meetings, while others can more easily adapt to digital meetings and communication tools.
Regardless, due to restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, most advisors no longer have much of a choice. They have been forced to work remotely. In fact, most companies have taken steps to ensure that their advisors are equipped to work remotely.
Here are some tips for working remotely.
1. Make use of Appropriate Technology
Technology is the most important enabler of working from home. Some of the tools that would make working remotely easy are:
a. Access to the cloud. This will provide you with access to all the tools you need, from any device, from anywhere. It will also eliminate the risk of storing information on your own physical server.
b. Software for virtual meetings. You will have to host virtual instead of face-to-face client meetings and webinars. Be sure to have access to virtual meeting tools like Zoom, Apple Face Time, Google Meetings or some other easy to use and convenient tool.
c. Client portal. Clients must be able to log-in to an on-line portal at their convenience to access statements or reports or to update personal information. This way they do not have to contact you for what they need.
d. CRM System. It is prudent to have a CRM system to manage all of your interactions with existing as well as potential clients. It allows you streamline your processes across the entire client life cycle – from sales to prospecting to onboarding to on-going client maintenance.
Related: Top Tech Tools Every Financial Advisor Must Have!
2. Set up your Workspace
Establish a comfortable work space that would prevent distractions, especially if you are working from a home office and other individuals are living in the home. This would allow you to focus on your work, without interruptions. The furniture, office fixtures and equipment you use should make you feel as though you are not working remotely.
3. Manage your Time Effectively
If you are new to working from home, it is easy to get distracted. You will therefore have to manage your time effectively. You should establish some ground rules for yourself, such as working hours and breaks. Prioritize your tasks just as you would do if you are working out of an office.
4. Don’t Short Change Yourself
Working remotely can be a big transition. You don’t have the comfort of mixing with co-workers. It is important to schedule health-breaks and find time to talk to colleagues to relieve stress and motivate yourself. You can also participate in relevant on-line webinars to give you a chance to interact with others and stay abreast with developments in your field.
5. Take Control with a Digital Office
One of the easiest ways to work remotely is by using a cost-effective digital office like BlueMind. It’s flexible and easy-to-use platform empowers you to take control of your business. BlueMind provides access to a customizable centralized dashboard which allows you to perform analytical tasks, make efficient recommendations, track, manage and communicate with clients, and prepare management reports. And you don’t need multiple tools to do your job.
See BlueMind's amazing features and how they can help you in your daily remote working routine.
