Dear Remote:

It really is possible to build a strong company culture within a remote company, although that may seem hard to believe. We know that one meaning of the word “remote” is “distant and aloof,” but the marketing world is turning that definition upside down. It boils down to creating a strong virtual model from the very beginning. Here are some tips to help make that happen:

Lead differently

The old-school command-and-control style of leadership just doesn’t work for virtual companies, the “I must see you working or I won’t get my money’s worth” attitude. Instead, recruit self-managing professionals who are aligned and engaged with the company’s purpose. Consider yourself a steward, not an owner. Take care of your resources, and make sure that they serve the staff and the clients for overall success. Be open to what you don’t know – hire millennials as part of your virtual team to stay abreast of technological advances. If a company wants to achieve long-term sustainability, they have to be willing to change as the business landscape changes, too.

Create a team environment

How do you create a team within a virtual space? It starts with the concept of “win-win-win.” Instead of a team environment, many companies have a sales environment, which encourages competition over collaboration. In a team environment, a win for the team means that everyone wins, and therefore all employees want to help one another win. Of course, a true win extends beyond the internal team – it must also be a win for the client. It’s that team environment and a true partnership with clients that creates a thriving virtual culture.

Establish valuable service partnerships

Consider it your job to improve their business, and expect that they’ll help improve yours too. Remember that your vendors are not just your vendors – they’re your partners.” You’d be astonished at how fast “word gets around” in the marketing world. Once you’ve established your company as a great organization to work with, that reputation is as valuable as any imposing building or gleaming lobby.

As a fully remote company, Xavier Creative House has developed lasting partnerships with experts spanning multiple specialties. We consider each of our resources as a valuable gift, understanding that a supported, empowered workforce is a loyal workforce. Contact us today to enjoy the benefits of working with our virtual organization, or even get some ideas for how to “go office-less” yourself!

Reference: https://www.forbes.com/sites/paulspiegelman/2016/07/18/building-a-great-culture-with-remote-teams/#377640d3587b. Accessed April 10, 2017.