Remote work has gone from a trend to the norm. While this was once the domain of freelancers, employees now fully work remotely - whether from their homes, a coffee shop, or a coworking space. And most revolutionary is that there are entire businesses that are run remotely. There are many options for anyone who wishes to work remotely. If you want to start a remote business, want to be a remote employee, or start freelancing remotely - you want to learn about the best remote technology that is available.
Following are some basic remote technologies that are essential for you to start working remotely:
The Best Remote Technology
While the plethora of remote technologies is now available, you want to choose the best services and applications. Selecting the best resources will ensure you have the best experience of working remotely.
VPN
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. This service lets you connect securely to another network over the web.
A VPN can be used to hide your browsing data from hackers and any potential attacks. It can also be used to access content on the web that is restricted by a particular region.
All you have to do is visit a VPN service such as NordVPN or IVPN - among others - and register for their service. They will usually charge a monthly or annual fee that can be renewed or canceled at any time.
VoIP
A Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) application is becoming quite common for remote voice communication. VoIP has replaced traditional telephonic interaction and has multiple advantages. The most significant benefit is that it is mostly free. You just need an internet connection and app or software to use it.
Applications such as Cisco Webex, Skype and Zoom are great options. They can be used for one-on-one calls as well as conferences and remote team meetings. We suggest mastering utilizing a VoIP application before diving into remote work. This will completely replace your mobile phone, so make sure you know the best application for you.
Cloud Storage
Having quick access to important files and document is vital when working remotely. It becomes impractical to store everything on your laptop. Having your files on multiple external hard drives and flash drives is an option, but carrying them around is a hassle. Also, there is a possibility of data loss in case the drives are lost or damaged.
The best solution is to use a cloud storage option such as Google Drive, Box, or Dropbox - among many others. This way your files are stored on the internet and can be accessed from anywhere - as long as you have an internet connection.
Time Tracking Software
Time tracking software is imperative if you work by the hour. Even if you are on a salary or get paid for each gig you complete, keeping track of time gives you an idea of how much time you spend working.
Whether you use Toptal Time Tracker or Toggl's Time Tracker - among other applications - you want to keep a record of how much time you are spending while working. These applications can also record your screen activity if you are paid by the hour. This ensures your employer that you are working and not wasting any time!
Time tracking is also crucial for your mental health. Remote work can be overwhelming, and sometimes it is hard to keep track and balance life between work and leisure, which can cause burnout.
Communication Tools
In addition to the necessity of VoIP and the use of email, there is a need for communication through instant message or chat software. Sending instant messages is often the most convenient way to communicate with your team.
This is also an excellent option for collaborating with your team. As you are working on a project together, you can chat with your teammates. Applications such as Slack and Flow are popular chat options for many remote workers and remote teams alike.
As with a VoIP application, we suggest you try different chat applications to see which best suits your needs.
Project Management
This is especially crucial when working with teams on a major project. Applications such as Basecamp, Asana, and Trello are project management tools where you can collaborate with your team.
For example, if you are writing an ebook, you can link a Google Document in Asana. After you are finished, you can assign your editor to start proofreading and assign your graphic designer to work on the book cover. All of this can be done within Asana's interface.
A project management tool is a necessity for any remote business, remote team, or remote freelancer who wishes to collaborate with others.
Online Banking
This may not always be a necessity for every situation. Still, it can be very beneficial for freelancers and remote companies. Especially if you decide to be a digital nomad, you want to make sure you can always have an account to access your money.
Remote Bank accounts such as Revolut, Charles Schwab, Monzo, N26 - among many others, are made for people who travel and work remotely. They are a quick way to access money at any time without ever needing to enter a physical bank branch.
We suggest learning more about Fintech - as it will be required for understanding which remote bank account works best for your needs.
Payment Authorization Account
A simpler way to send and receive payments through digital payment providers. These can include Stripe or PayPal or cryptocurrency exchanges such as Coinbase.
Many remote companies prefer to pay their workers through a digital payment provider. They may even ask for your account credentials when you apply and reject you if you do not use such a service. These services are also great if you want to pay employees or contractors for any of your own work.
We suggest having multiple accounts on different services to have the option of receiving payments from a customer's preferred payment service.
Your Work Can Be Remote
Technology can be beneficial if appropriately utilized in remote work or business. It can make difficult jobs simpler and safer. We have mentioned the basic remote technology that can be useful in running your own business remotely or working as a remote employee. Various applications and programs are based on these remote technologies currently used by millions of people globally.
