5 tools to help your remote-work business click

Pre-pandemic, working from home was often considered a perk rather than a requirement. But once COVID-19 struck, many companies shifted to a remote-first work environment — a change that’s now permanent in some cases.

Recent Gallup research data shows that, on average, 52% of all workers, including 72% of those in white-collar occupations and 14% in blue-collar occupations, performed their job remotely for all or part of the time from October 2020 to April 2021. And 83% of employers believe that going remote has been positive for their company, according to a January 2021 report by professional services firm PwC.

While a remote-first structure can present some unique challenges, workplace performance experts encourage business owners to anticipate common pitfalls.

“Focus on overcommunicating, and find ways to encourage people to work together rather than doing it alone,” said Thanh Pham, founder and CEO of productivity training company Asian Efficiency.

Whether your company is remote by choice or by circumstance, consider apps and digital tools in these five areas to optimize your telework setup.

1. INSTANT MESSAGING

Instant messaging software has grown increasingly popular in the workplace. A good system allows you to send individual messages as well as group chats — the virtual equivalent of walking over to your coworker’s desk for a quick discussion. You also can share documents and images with others in your network.

Companies can create channels to host more permanent conversations across departments or employees who share common interests. And if your team communicates with clients or contractors on a regular basis, you can offer limited access to specific channels for group collaboration.

Slack and Microsoft Teams are two of the best-known brands for instant...