RentalMetrics is the "in-sourced" management
consulting firm for the construction equipment rental sector. We're
headquartered in the heartland of America too. Please browse through our site
to gain some insight on how we think, what we do, and what makes us passionate
(some say obsessive) about extracting every last drop of efficiency from your
operations.Keys to Communication with Remote or Virtual Teams
The RentalMetrics business model leverages more collaborative technologies to execute than you're probably used to. We believe in producing our RedMeat content that makes you more money instead of flying around the country and filling up rental cars with $4.00 gas on your dime. We're very comfortable with technologies and strategies to communicate with our clients...virtually.
So now you are working with or managing teams all over a metro area, a state, or the world. Did anyone give you a manual on how to communicate effectively in the brave new interconnected world? I'm guessing no. If you're not used to working with teams remotely, challenges will arise.
Luckily, there are some very smart people out there to help us through this. No matter the technology used, there are some great guidelines provided by Michelle LaBrosse in her piece called: Can you run your projects when you're on the run?
Business in a Knapsack: Six Keys to Clear Virtual Communication
My favorite idea is #2
2. Manage results, not activity.
In the physical office environment, "busy work" often gets mistaken for real work. In the virtual environment, when you can't see what people are doing, the key is to manage results. Set expectations and monitor the results, not the daily activities.
Do we practice what we preach here at RentalMetrics? Heck yeah we do. I see most of the folks in our organization in person once a week at most. Usually, those are 2-3 hour sessions to brain storm new course ideas or have lunch to catch up and simply connect. Otherwise, we're using collaboration workspaces powered by Central Desktop, instant messaging, video conferencing, text messages, and those darn cell phones. We simply state the desired result and attach expectations to the outcome.
Getting used to remote communication methods and tools may just be the wisest investment you'll make over the next few years. It won't be long before those video game playing, ipod listening, text messaging "young people" are the seasoned leaders in your construction/rental organization.
For more on how companies have adapted to remote/flexible workers...take a look at how Best Buy has "Smashed the Clock" with fantastic results.
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