In the era of remote work, staying connected with colleagues and clients is paramount. This guide explores various strategies employed by professionals to maintain and strengthen these vital connections while working from home.
From leveraging digital platforms to attending in-person events, homeworkers adopt diverse methods to ensure their networks remain robust. This comprehensive overview highlights proven practices and expert insights that make remote working both effective and fulfilling.
Maximising In-Person Interactions
Despite the ‘homeworking’ label, many professionals do not confine themselves to their homes. Some embrace a digital nomad lifestyle, working from various locations. Meanwhile, those who prefer a stable base find creative ways to engage with others.
The Personal Travel Agents, part of Co-op Travel, regularly organise ‘Big PTA Work Togethers’ nationwide. These events allow agents to work alongside each other, facilitating face-to-face interaction and collective brainstorming. Cherie Richards, head of business development at Hays Travel, notes, ‘Working at home can be lonely, so we have regular catch-ups and encourage our members to connect with each other, creating a supportive peer network.’
Smaller-Scale Networking Opportunities
Beyond large conferences, smaller-scale events and familiarization (fam) trips offer intimate networking settings.
Not Just Travel’s elite-level consultants, for example, enjoy two luxury overseas trips annually. Additionally, their cruise division members participate in seminars at sea, hosted by Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises. These seminars combine education with practical experiences, enhancing consultants’ skills and knowledge.
Paul Harrison, co-founder of Not Just Travel, explains, ‘These are not just educational trips. We invest in coaching and business development to help our consultants grow their businesses. Operators who have supported us have seen significant increases in sales from participating consultants.’
Utilising Digital Platforms
Digital tools play a crucial role in keeping homeworkers connected, especially for those who cannot attend in-person events.
Merv Bates, travel associate at Travel Four Seasons, illustrates the effective use of virtual communication. ‘I work from a lovely office, which allows my clients to come and see me. We have regular Teams and Zoom meetings, often joined by suppliers,’ he says. These interactions ensure continuous engagement with clients and colleagues.
The ability to work from anywhere, supported by reliable internet, allows professionals to manage tasks and serve clients efficiently. Carol Lewis, from Travel Counsellors, shares her experience, ‘The freedom to work from anywhere is incredible. Over the past three years, I’ve worked from various countries, staying on top of urgent tasks and providing personalised service.’
Balancing Flexibility and Discipline
Homeworking offers unparalleled flexibility, yet it requires self-discipline and a conducive environment.
Carol Lewis highlights the advantages and challenges, ‘Waking up to stunning views and working from different time zones is motivating. However, it demands discipline and reliable internet access.’ This balance enhances service delivery and credibility with clients.
Merv Bates adds, ‘Having the freedom to work where I want is a boon. I booked a client’s honeymoon while sailing from Brest to Reykjavik. This flexibility is something the high street cannot offer.’
The Importance of Structured Support
Structured support systems are integral to successful homeworking. Regular check-ins, both virtual and in-person, foster collaboration and morale.
Cherie Richards emphasizes this, ‘We encourage regular team meet-ups and annual conferences, providing a platform for homeworkers to connect and grow their networks.’
Such initiatives not only alleviate the isolation often associated with remote work but also provide opportunities for professional growth and learning.
Adapting to a Changing Work Environment
Adapting to a changing work environment is essential for long-term success in homeworking.
Paul Harrison asserts, ‘Continuously evolving strategies in coaching and business development are crucial. They ensure that our consultants remain competitive and capable of providing high-quality services.’
This adaptive approach positions homeworkers to effectively meet client needs and industry demands, leveraging both technology and personal interactions.
The diverse strategies employed by homeworkers to stay connected underline the importance of flexibility, discipline, and structured support. Through a blend of digital and in-person interactions, professionals can effectively nurture their networks and achieve long-term success.
By leveraging conferences, smaller events, and advanced digital tools, homeworkers ensure they remain engaged and productive, regardless of their physical location. The future of homeworking is bright, driven by innovation and a commitment to maintaining strong professional relationships.
