Coronavirus  

Workforce turns to tech in crisis

Alison Steed

Alison Steed

This is a particular benefit over some other virtual meeting software.

You can also host webinars on Zoom, which again could be useful if you want to offer your clients some information en masse in relation to the current market volatility.

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Zoom is acutely aware that its services can be of real use at a time like this, and has even created a shortcut outline of how its services can help during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Teamviewer – This is screensharing software that allows you to link up with clients or colleagues and even take over their computer screen and mouse operation.

This is particularly useful for clients who may be struggling to access online services that you may offer as you can actually take over their screen and get them to the information or service they are looking for remotely.

If you need to talk to colleagues while you are in lockdown, you can also initiate instant messaging chats with other members of your team and you can also use it to access your computer remotely if you need to.

Slack.com – Slack is a workspace that allows people working for the same business remotely to keep in touch in real time as if they are all in the same office. 

The instant messaging facility on Slack means there is no delay in asking colleagues questions and getting answers, providing they are logged on.

Slack is free for small teams with prices for bigger teams available online. They start at relatively small amounts per month.

Microsoft Teams – If you already use Microsoft in your office, then this is definitely one to check out. 

This system incorporates many of the services of all three of the above.

The free version of each of the chat apps on Slack and Microsoft Teams is pretty similar, but where Microsoft Teams has the edge is in web conferencing, where you also have the option to record meetings – something that is not possible on Slack and could be very beneficial at present.

No matter what system you use, keeping in touch with clients and colleagues now is essential.

It helps them to feel more secure and could help your business no end.

Alison Steed is a freelance journalist