Love it or hate it, technology’s part of the virtual employee experience.  

It’s not only about using Zoom or Microsoft Teams for video conferencing and chat. 

Now there are so many online software tools for business it can make your head spin. 

At HireSmart, we’ve embraced this new era of communication tech because it makes working with virtual employees much more productive. 

And you don’t need to be a computer wiz to take advantage of these powerful tools. 

But, you might need some training or introduction to get started and make the most out of them. 

Don’t worry if you’re not overly familiar with – 

Online skills-based training has become a crucial part of professional development for almost all our clients.  

 

As virtual employees become a larger percentage of the workforce, businesses are turning to online training to manage and develop their teams.  

Of course, not all trainings are created equal. 

So, we thought it’d be a great idea to give you some tips. 

 

Identify the right training program 

You really need to look before you leap here. 

Even though the programs we’re talking about are free, they still take time to learn and introduce to your staff. 

Before jumping into any online training program, it’s important to identify the right program for what your business needs.  

As Jeff Miller, CEO of Cornerstone OnDemand, says, “The key is to identify the specific skills gaps you need to fill and then seek out resources that align with your needs.” 

 

Encourage participation and collaboration  

Online training programs are often isolating and disengaging, especially for virtual employees. 

Encourage participation and collaboration by creating opportunities for discussion and feedback.  

Ask your team about what they’re learning, what they like or don’t like about the training, and how their experience could be improved. 

As Karen Sobel-Lojeski, founder of Virtual Distance International, notes, “The key to effective virtual training is to create an environment that promotes engagement, interaction, and collaboration.” 

 

Provide support and resources  

Your employees might have technical issues or need additional resources during the training program.  

If they get confused or stuck, especially at the program’s beginning, they may get discouraged. 

Make sure they have the support and resources they need to help them stay with the program.  

 

Measure the effectiveness of the training program 

This is the only way to determine whether the program is meeting your goals and objectives.  

Monitor your virtual employees’ progress throughout the training and gather feedback from them at the end.  

Use this feedback to improve the program and make necessary adjustments for future training. 

 

Here are some of the free training options we recommend for our clients at HireSmart: 

• Udemy – Udemy offers a wide range of online courses in topics like business, technology, and personal development.  

• LinkedIn Learning – LinkedIn Learning is an online learning platform with video courses taught by industry experts. 
• Skillshare – Skillshare offers classes in creative fields like design, photography, and writing. It also has opportunities for collaboration and networking. 
• Google Digital Garage – Google Digital Garage has free online courses on digital marketing, coding, and data analytics. It’s a great resource for virtual employees looking to upskill in these areas. 

• FutureLearn – FutureLearn offers courses from top universities and institutions around the world. It also provides certifications upon completion of the courses. 

 

When you’re a HireSmart client, we offer many resources for your business beyond matching you with the right virtual employee for your business needs.  

We want to make sure you have all the tools and information you need for your business and team to thrive. 

Let us help you successfully navigate the exciting world of virtual employees. Click here for a free consultation.