The office is a constantly evolving environment. In fact, the tech
boom has given rise to a brand new work environment unlike the world has ever
seen. Globalization and the internet have transformed the way we do business,
altering the landscape and changing the way workers, united under the banner of
a common vocational purpose, interact and see a project to completion.
Online office environments, like oDesk and Elance, have become an
increasingly common way to infuse expertise into small businesses by outsourcing
skills and aspects of a project that may not fall within the core competencies
of its key constituents. In fact, it is now possible to see a project from
acorn to oak by building a workforce of contractors from around the world
operating in a virtual office environment which tracks their time and progress.
Operating through the soft barrier and anonymity that is the
internet, it’s easier than ever to be detached from some of the more mundane
aspects of the job. In their infancy, virtual office environments were a
breeding ground for employers looking to get something for nothing by offering
the promise of work to desperate contractors. Thankfully, the market has found
a way to regulate itself and, though the problem does still persist, it is no
longer the norm. Employers will be keen to protect themselves from contractors looking
to make a quick buck and leaving them in the lurch with poorly executed, or
incomplete, work. On the other hand, most contractors will be inclined to
protect themselves, and usually only want to be compensated fairly for their
time and their expertise. It’s important to remember that there is an element
of give and take that is essential to making the relationship function optimally.
As tempting as it might be for an employer to contract the data
entry services of someone working for $1 per hour in a distant country, there’s
no guarantee that what is needed will be communicated effectively or that the
work will be done correctly. One might even be persuaded to convince several
prospective contractors to complete samples in order to prove that they are
capable of completing the work and then running off with the aggregate without
compensating a single contractor for their work.
When dealing with any contractor in an online environment the key is
to first give them the benefit of the doubt. Knowing that they are capable of
what they say they are is important and most will be able to provide a track
record of successfully completed work. Inherent in the system of most E-offices
is a feedback system and, although abuses are not unheard of, there is also
some legitimacy to them and should be another factor to consider before making
a hire. Lastly, reach out – a virtual office relationship is still a
relationship and a quick Skype call can go a long way to establishing trust
between contractor and employer. Employers demonstrate that they are the real
deal, with honest money to pay for an honest service, and this informal
interview process is usually enough to unveil the wizard behind the curtain.
No matter who you hire for what service, keeping the lines of
communication open is essential and a “set it and forget it” mentality is never
a recommended approach. As your business grows, so will your relationships and
it’s important to nurture them and keep in mind that sacrificing some early
returns can, with the right amount of patience, generate greater stability over
the long haul.
