Is the Winter Weather Hindering your Work?

If you'd like to sit back and listen to how conferencing can help you when you're snowed in, then go directly to the end of the article. Otherwise, read on for tips to help you work virtually when the weather stops you cold.

A large snowstorm blows across the Pacific Northwest. Freezing cold temperatures isolate the upper Midwest. An ice storm stops traffic in the South. Don't let inclement weather keep you out of the loop. This time of year, weather can be one more obstacle to accomplishing your business objectives. Verizon Conferencing offers a few suggestions to easily facilitate the transition of setting up a virtual office. Instead of being snowed in, you can "snow" clients and colleagues over with your ability to stay connected, no matter where you are.

• Finalize telecommuting plans before inclement weather arrives. Make sure you have the proper equipment to telecommute (i.e. PC with modem, phone, fax) and the proper applications for your computer (i.e. word processor, e-mail, Internet browser). Keep a list of current company and client phone numbers and duplicates of any essential documents in your briefcase so you can access them from anywhere, anytime.
  
  
• Communicate, communicate, communicate. When working virtually, check in to your workplace regularly by phoning or e-mailing your immediate supervisor and team members. Set up a "to do" list and report your status at mutually agreed upon intervals. Stay on top of your office voicemail; return calls promptly. At the end of the day, don't forget to check out.
  
  
• No need for a staff or client meeting to stall, even if your car has. If you have a meeting planned or want to organize a virtual meeting, call into Verizon Conferencing (1-800-475-5000) and get an audio conference running in less than 20 minutes.
  
  
• Set aside some time to chill out. Even when you work at home or on the road, it's OK to take a break. While enjoying a quick lunch or stretch, let calls go to voicemail. As in any work setting, be sure to return phone calls and e-mails in a timely, responsive manner.
  
  
• Net Conferencing to the rescue. If you're on your way to meet a client for an important meeting and inclement weather hinders your plan, just set up a Net conference. Hundreds of people can view a presentation or collaborate on a document in real time while discussing it on a separate audio conference. It's easy to schedule via Verizon Business e-Scheduling or a call to reservations, both available around the clock, seven days a week.

If you've enjoyed your day working remotely, and your company doesn't have a telecommuting policy, suggest one. With one in place, you might get to enjoy the benefits of working from home without having to wait for another winter catastrophe.

Choose an audio file below and listen to how conferencing can help you when you're snowed in.

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