CKP Founder and CEO Carey Kirkpatrick appeared as a subject matter expert on KRIV FOX 26 Houston sharing helpful tips on how businesses and employees can be better prepared to work remotely. The spread of the novel Coronavirus is propelling businesses to instill social distancing policies, keeping people at home and switching most, if not all, in-person interactions to video conferencing and other remote communication methods such as texting, email and calls.

Although CKP has physical offices in multiple Texas markets, the spaces are mostly used for co-working and collaborative meetings. Carey’s experience setting up a remote team has been focused on client deliverables, allowing staff to work where, when and how they’re most productive.

If you're working remotely for the first time, this segment features Carey’s advice, which can be broken down in three main points:

1. Tools

Ensure your business and team have the right materials and equipment to be productive remotely. That could be a combination of computers, tablets and monitors, alongside appropriate software subscriptions and connectivity.

2. Access

A reliable internet connection is just the beginning here. Moving critical files and processes to the cloud—whether stored in a company service that can be accessed through VPN or through more widely accessible services like iCloud, Dropbox, Quip and others—will give you the ability to continue serving clients without disruption. For those remote working for the first time, understand the preferred communication methods of your colleagues. Some may prefer texting or using messaging apps while others may be more effective using video or email platforms.

3. Expectations

Establish rules of engagement for all team members, including setting up regular check-in meetings to ensure all projects are in progress and nothing is getting lost in the shuffle. This is the time to err on the side of over-communicating so everyone stays apprised of priories and any issues that might arise. For those with families, setting up a work station that implies you are in “work mode” is important. While it may be impossible to stop babies from crying and dogs from barking, this is a time when everyone can be a little forgiving of interruptions. Keep those distractions to a minimum by also setting up rules of engagement with your household.

Watch the complete segment here or below: