Working on the internet is so much different than working in a corporate office environment. However, there are similarities that are important in both work atmospheres.
One of the negatives of an internet business income can be isolation. It is easy to become so isolated we cut ourselves off, losing focus on what is happening outside of our environment. Whether you are working alongside your co-workers or working via the internet from your home office, communication is extremely important. Actually I think it's #1. How can anyone know what we are doing or the services we offer if we don't communicate with them?
Some of the most obvious ways of communicating is by telephone, email and social media. Consider using web based conferencing or webcams to interact in a live-time environment. There are free services available to set up group meetings via the internet or attend training programs, conferences, etc. Stay connected with your working community by any method that works for you. Don't forget the telephone is still an excellent way of speaking personally with a client to fix any problems that may have arisen. Emails aren't always the answer. Instant messenger programs are fabulous for staying in touch no matter where you are.
There are no corporate hours for home based internet job and your clients can be anywhere in the world and in different time zones. Set your office hours, post them and adhere to them. It is easy to end up working extremely odd hours just because the computer is in front of you and a client from across the country has emailed you with a question. By establishing set hours, everyone, including clients or your contacts knows when you are available and won't expect you to respond at odd hours. It's up to you to set the boundaries. They don't need to know you work 18 hours a day trying to get your business established.
Similiar to you, there are others working virtually who can provide you with assistance, products or services via the internet. Don't have time to check emails, write correspondence, or build a website? There are virtual assistants, working as private contractors who can take care of those details for you. Take advantage of their services and do what you do best ~ manage your online business.
Do some surfing and you can find many useful web based tools that can make your business run smoother such as Google docs, online project management programs like Basecamp, social media management tools such as Hootsuite and list management programs such as Aweber. Use whatever tools you need to ensure your online business's success. Online programs like gotopc or logmein allows access to your office computer from another computer virtually ~ no matter where you are.
The greatest benefit to an internet business is to be able to work from a great home office environment, choosing your own office hours and type of business but it can also be a detriment if we are not careful. Stay involved with others in your industry, get out into the community, and use the tools and assistance available to you. By doing so, what you may have previously considered to be challenges do not interfere with the successful operation of any business whether it is online or a typical "Brick and Mortar" style business.
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