6 Tools To Make Remote Work More Human

There’s a plethora of tools we all use everyday, but the following have a specific purpose: make business more human. Find what works for you and share it.

1. NOTION [NOTION.SO]: CREATING, ORGANIZING AND STREAMLINING INFORMATION FOR REFERENCE

For creating a streamlined database of process documentation, Frequently Asked Questions that your whole team or clients can use, or a general place of reference, this has been invaluable. It’s simple to use, but for those who like the nitty gritty details, additional formatting like creating custom tables and database views will make you exceptionally happy. It gets better the more you explore it.

2. LOOM [LOOM.COM]: FOR CREATING PERSONALIZED SCREENCASTS, PRESENTATIONS, AND TUTORIALS

We use Loom almost exclusively for all clients’ video tutorials. It’s particularly helpful for showcasing how to navigate specific tools and features online, or running through a presentation deck while you’re in view.

3. TYPEFORM AND VIDEOASK BY TYPEFORM [TYPEFORM.COM]: FOR STREAMLINING DATA COLLECTION IN A HUMAN WAY

How you ask is everything and these tools provide ways to ask questions that, when done right, can mimic a natural conversation. Excellent for operations onboarding, prequalifications, or gathering feedback. Here's an example of how we used this for a non-profit client. The VideoAsk product is a Method for using video to ask questions and gather information in a way that's personal and takes advantage of face to face communication.

4. UBERCONFERENCE [UBERCONFERENCE.COM]: FOR A DEDICATED, UNLIMITED-USE TELECONFERENCE LINE

Free teleconferencing that's easy to customize and allows for screensharing, recording calls with no time limit, and integrates easily with Google Calendar.

5. ZOOM VIDEO CONFERENCE [ZOOM.US]: FOR VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS AND WEBINARS

A favorite in the video conferencing space, but lesser known for its robust virtual workshop tools including in-app polls, breakout rooms, and sound sharing (for playing music while doing specific writing exercises for example). It’s free for 1:1s, or up to 40 minutes for 3 or more people. The paid version is worth it for formal workshops and larger brainstorming sessions.

6. AKIMBO [AKIMBO.COM]: FOR LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT

Spearheaded by Seth Godin, Akimbo is a place that’s mastered virtual workshops. If you’re interested in seeing how these are facilitated, check out any one of their live workshops or the The Real Skills Conference.

For those who have never worked remotely, I understand that this change can be a culture shock. It’s easy to get overwhelmed but if you need any help, we’ve dedicated time every week to offer free 20 minute advisement sessions.

Have compassion for yourselves as you navigate this big change and know that we’re all in it together, supporting each other, uniting our strengths where we can. It’s an opportunity for strategic thinking, and I hope you take it.