What are the benefits of IT managed services?

 

IT technologies have seen consistent change since their start. These systems have grown ever more advanced, with “smart” technology becoming the mainstream.

 

With more possibilities regarding cloud-based services, apps, and security devices on the horizon, it’s essential for companies to manage IT correctly.

 

Although there are many benefits to these IT advancements, there’s more room for risk. Challenges presented by new IT services can cost a company in revenue and cyber security. The best way to keep pace with these complex systems for your Colorado business is to hire IT managed services in Denver. Learn more about why hiring managed IT services is important and how it can help your business thrive.

 

Top Benefits Explained

 

The range of benefits for hiring an IT management service is versatile. No matter the company structure or size, managed IT services help allocate resources in a more structured way. Overall, this new workflow improves many aspects of the business, including financial, personal, and security-related issues.

 

Provides expert-level security

 

IT security issues severely impact revenue, productivity, and the company’s image. An IT services team proactively manages and solves security issues before they arise. These experts are trained to spot technology issues right away so that your systems are more secure than ever. Over time, your business will experience fewer day-to-day technology and security issues through the help of an IT management team.

 

Improves productivity levels

 

Managed IT services doesn’t just mean improvements with security and device protection. These services cover any issues that might arise with technology in the office space. When office technology stops working, or even isn’t processing quickly enough, productivity slows. This unplanned downtime adds extra costs to the organization, as well. With the help of managed IT services, your team members can work more efficiently while you save time and money by avoiding network downtime and server crashes. Proactive IT services are the key to limiting this downtime.

 

Enhances budget predictability

 

One of the most difficult aspects of running a business is budgeting. Unforeseen costs can impact business investments and quickly plunge you into the red. Managed IT services improve business budgeting when it comes to sudden server or security issues. IT Managed Services in Denver typically include a set price for flexible support on either a monthly or yearly payment plan. This allows you to properly budget despite unforeseen technology issues. 

 

Access to wide range of tech expertise

 

There will never be one or two people who contain all the necessary knowledge for managing your company’s IT. The issue is that most Small and Midsize Businesses don’t have the resources to build out an entire team replete with a CIO, Director of IT, Engineers, Technicians, etc. Managed IT services understand that you are in need of all of these levels of expertise — however, they provide them in a fractionalized capacity in order to make the price tag much more palatable.

 

Helping Your Business Grow

 

There’s so much possibility when it comes to technology and business advancements. Smaller businesses can see growth seemingly overnight through the help of compatible technology. In fact, it’s easier to start small than to work with massive systems right away. A broad approach is not only a learning curve, but can result in more security issues if the proper software isn’t in place. 

 

Luckily, managed IT services can help any sized business expand up or down when needed without worry. These knowledgeable IT teams are ready to assist with everything from technology advancements to server crashes and security breaches. Contact Managed Services Denver for more information on IT services and how we can help.

What does an IT Service company do?

 

Have you ever considered hiring an IT company for your business? IT companies offer services that many businesses benefit from. From increasing online safety to fixing common technical issues, IT companies do it all. 

 

Best of all, an IT company can tailor their services to your specific needs. Find out more about what these companies do and how IT Services Denver can help protect your business and online assets.

 

IT Company Services Commonly Offered

 

Primarily, IT companies help service a business’ technology needs. These services help the business run smoothly at all times. This helps eliminate downtime while increasing company security. Depending on your business needs, an IT company can help you do the following:

 

Keep your system online and connected at all times.

All businesses rely on connectivity to some degree. Without it, customers cannot access their site, products, or services. An IT team ensures that there is always an online connection. This means they keep the system updated and operational, install necessary equipment and systems, and manage any connectivity issues. 

 

Fix crashes and slowdowns.

The upside of working with an IT company is that they can resolve issues from anywhere. This allows them to work quickly and remotely when it comes to sudden crashes. This is especially helpful if you don’t have an in-office IT team and need the problem fixed immediately. With the help of IT professionals, crashed and lagging systems are remedied much quicker.

 

Maintain system & cloud infrastructure.

There are many different components that make up IT hardware and cloud systems. These include the system network and physical parts like circuits and other equipment. Cloud infrastructure is a different animal but is equally as complicated in its own sense. Setting up and maintaining these systems often requires the expertise of a professional. IT companies can help build extra infrastructure and manage the hardware of each system more effectively.

 

Keep network needs inside the budget.

Poorly installed networks cause costly issues. With the help of IT professionals, your network continues to run smoothly with all of the correct add-ons, security, hardware, and software. An IT company can also make suggestions about best practices and more affordable tools you can use for your network. For example, you may be unknowingly paying more for a more complex system. With the right knowledge and suggestions, you can stick to a more defined network budget. 

 

Implement preventative measures.

An IT company doesn’t just help to fix problems when they arise. A large part of an IT professional’s duties include setting up preventative strategies to deter problems from occurring in the first place. As a business manager or owner, you shouldn’t have to continually put out IT “fires”. Through preventative strategy development, the chance of issues arising significantly decreases. In turn, this results in better work efficiency, client satisfaction, higher productivity, and an increase in sales.

 

An IT service company can help you to streamline your network and create better business practices. Thinking about hiring an IT company for your business? Contact the best IT services in Denver to learn more about how to protect your network.

What skills should an IT person have?

 

IT services remain one of the fastest growing jobs in the world, with a projected growth of over 10% in the next seven years. Because these computer and technology specialists are in such high demand, it’s imperative to know how to hire one. 

 

IT specialists aren’t just skilled in tech, either. They have a variety of soft skills that allow them to fit seamlessly within your company structure. Let’s take a look at the top skills every Information Technology (IT) professional should have before you hire IT Support in Denver.

 

While IT professionals can wear many hats, your first step should be determining what your own top priorities are as a company. Based on what is important to you, you can more closely match your hire to your needs. To do that, first you need to understand the major “categories” of IT professionals:

 

Types of IT Professionals

  • CIO/vCIO: A Chief Information Officer is often the highest-paid and strategically leaning member of an IT team. They will deal with high-level thinking that marries technology to the future of the company. They may also be responsible for building out an IT team. This role is almost always necessary within an SMB but the specific size and complexity of the company will determine whether a full-time CIO is necessary or a fractional CIO (vCIO) is a better option.
  • IT Director: An IT Director is in the trenches often doing work around security, compliance, alignment to standards and making sure that the vision for the CIO or vCIO is implemented in a positive way. This can mean reporting on project progress or help desk proficiency to the CIO who will in turn take this information to leadership. While an IT Director may be involved in the strategic conversations had by the CIO with other leadership, they are often working on the specific tactics in implementing that vision.
  • IT Engineer: An Engineer can be a very broad term in IT circles. There are different types of engineers, including software engineers, network administrators, development personnel, etc. True engineers are more involved in implementation on specific projects (i.e. cloud migration to Azure) than in the planning for the future state of the company. In certain organizations, a skilled engineer will be responsible for help desk when there are no current projects and at other times will be hyper focused on a project. The issue with this system is that this can often lead to an engineer being stretched thin or becoming inundated with small issues that are below their paygrade.
  • Help Desk Technician: Technicians are often the lowest paid on the totem pole of an IT organization. However, they are vital to the satisfaction of your internal employees. Technicians will often deal solely with break-fix issues. Their responsiveness and level of proficiency will determine whether your day-to-day “IT experience” is a positive one. Some of the onus also lands on the IT Director, who will usually be responsible for gauging the success of the technician(s) through metrics, satisfaction scores, etc.

 

No matter the organization, there is some need for all of these roles. The variable is whether in each case the specific roles should be fractionalized or hired as full-time employees.

 

In addition, there are two main factors to be looking for in each IT professional: Technical Skills and Soft Skills.

 

Technical Skills

 

Every IT person should have a range of technical skills at their disposal. Although some IT professionals specialize in certain areas, most have at least some background knowledge of technology, security, and general computer skills. Depending on their role and discipline, an IT specialist can help you with the following.

 

Writing code: Basic code writing is a skill that every IT professional should have. Although the position may not require in-depth coding skills, having a basic knowledge of HTML and other codes is important. For those hiring software engineers or web developers, proficiency in writing multiple codes is a must.

 

Knowledge of platforms: Working in tech requires these individuals to be flexible and versatile when working with various business platforms. Even if an IT specialist isn’t well-versed on the methodology that your business uses, they’ll be able to adjust quickly. Working in a fast-paced environment is common for specialists navigating an ever-changing field.

 

IT security: An IT professional can also assist you with setting up cybersecurity and software. Basic cybersecurity skills include installing firewalls, improving business security practices, and addressing general concerns.

 

Soft Skills

 

Although technical skills are critical to the success of every IT professional, soft skills are just as important. “Soft skills” refers to those skills that make an employee stand out – like communication, empathy, and teamwork. All of these skills are an integral part of the hiring process, as well. Take a look at the most important soft skills any IT professional should have below.

 

Interpersonal skills: IT professionals work alongside many different departments. This is why having good communication and interpersonal skills is essential for any person in IT. Being openly communicative about deadlines, issues, and delays helps every department run smoothly and on time. 

 

Timeliness: Sticking to deadlines and submitting work on time is important for any employee. However, IT specialists need to be especially prompt. Fixing cybersecurity and function issues right away keeps everything running smoothly. Additionally, managing large work batches and honoring delivery expectations can make or break a business.

 

Focused: Issues always happen when it comes to technology. Therefore it’s extremely important that IT professionals remain calm and understanding (even when everyone else is panicking!). A large part of every IT personnel’s job is working with frustrated people, whether they are customers or coworkers. That’s why it’s important that every IT person knows how to keep focused despite the hardships.

For more information on IT support in Denver, contact Elevate.

What Is IT Support?

 

The phrase “IT support” comes up often in most business environments. But what exactly does it mean? IT stands for information technology, and it covers the many ways in which computers make life easier for individuals and businesses. For example: 

 

  • Personal computers allow you to store and retrieve information
  • Specialized software helps you to organize your team and tasks
  • Telephones and webcams allow you to quickly communicate with your teammates and clients

 

IT is a broad realm. But the word “support” is fairly straightforward. Depending on the size and nature of your business, it’s wise to have an individual or team dedicated to inspecting, maintaining, and troubleshooting internal workplace tech. If your business specializes in offering consumers hardware or software, IT support may also help customers with any product issues that arise. 

 

As advancements continue to be made in the tech world, businesses will become more reliant on tech solutions. So, having competent and professional IT support is more important than ever.

 

Who Offers IT Support?

 

Who exactly is qualified to offer you IT support? That depends on the level of expertise you’re willing to accept. Many people in the field have an associate’s degree in computer science or a similar subject. Others have professional certifications to prove their level of knowledge. 

 

If your business heavily relies on tech, perhaps the most important thing to look for in an IT support specialist is experience. You’ll want to work with someone who is very familiar with software and hardware issues that are most relevant to your business. This ensures the specialist won’t need to spend too much time getting up to speed with your operations. Knowledge of past IT practices and applications usually isn’t enough. You want to rely on a team that keeps up with the latest developments, challenges, and threats in the tech world. This ensures your business stays ahead of potential pitfalls.  

 

Does Your Business Need IT Support?

 

Perhaps you already have a tech support person who you call whenever you need help. And that might be enough for a small business. But you’ll likely need more help if your business begins to expand. This is especially true if you’re dealing with sensitive information and need a line of defense from hackers or other cybersecurity risks. Here are just a few services that a dedicated IT support team can offer you and your business:

 

  • Modern virus protection from the latest threats
  • Protection from hackers
  • Improved operating infrastructure  
  • Peace of mind that comes with routine data backups
  • Quick response when technical problems crop up 
  • Increased customer satisfaction if the IT team offers consumer support

 

Need IT support in Denver? Elevate Services Group can help you take command of your IT today. Reach out to us to schedule an initial conversation and determine if we’re a good fit for you. If we’re the right service for you, we’ll help you modernize and secure your business.
Take a look at The Elevate Way. It might be insightful for you!

What Are IT Services?

 

Wondering if your business will benefit from a new IT support team? It helps to first understand the many types of services that IT professionals can deliver. Here are just a few IT services that can enhance and secure your business. 

 

Cybersecurity 

 

When most people think of a business’ IT needs, cybersecurity is one of the top priorities. After all, businesses may need to protect their own data as well as sensitive information on customers. IT experts can employ a variety of the tools and practices to keep your network safe from viruses and hackers. Some examples include:

 

  • Data encryption
  • Firewalls
  • Routine data backup
  • Network monitoring
  • Two-factor authentication
  • Safe file sharing practices and custom access rights

 

The IT team will need the cooperation of everyone at your business to ensure security remains tight. 

 

Computer Repair

 

Anyone who has ever worked with a computer knows that unexpected maintenance issues can cause plenty of stress. From physical issues such as damaged wires to internal problems such as Wi-Fi adapter driver errors, an IT service can come up with quick repair solutions. Routine maintenance and equipment inspection can also ensure your computers keep running efficiently for as long as you need them. 

 

Data Backup

 

As mentioned earlier, routine data backup can be a wise option when it comes to safeguarding your data from security threats. Even if the original data is lost, you can use saved files to restore operations and keep things running smoothly. IT pros can offer Cloud backup services to store your business’ most important files. 

 

Networking 

 

Does your business always seem to be suffering from networking issues? IT experts can adjust your networking infrastructure to minimize issues with elements like modems and LAN routers. Hire an IT team that’s willing to look at your existing infrastructure and suggest and implement changes that increase security and efficiency.    

 

Data Analytics

 

Are your latest efforts moving your business in the right direction? Some IT services will offer to run data analytics for businesses. Essentially the IT experts keep a close eye on data and create reports for business owners to assess. From there, the business owner can determine what is and what isn’t working. 

 

Remote Access 

 

Many businesses are switching to policies and practices that allow employees to work from home – either full-time or on a limited basis. Of course, lots of technology goes into remote work. For example, employees need to be able to access their work files. IT experts can help you set up virtual desktops as a solution to this issue. An IT team can also offer technical support for employees who run into roadblocks while trying to remotely access their work files. 

 

Elevate Your Business

 

When you need IT services in Denver, Elevate Services Group can help. Your business can benefit from our engaging team of professionals, effective tech tools, and proven processes that lead to IT success. Whether you lack a formal IT service or want to modernize your current operations, we can offer assistance. Reach out today to schedule an initial conversation.

Here Is Why Windows Virtual Desktop Is Better Than Traditional Virtualization Solutions

Here Is Why Windows Virtual Desktop Is Better Than Traditional Virtualization Solutions

Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD) allows your business to leverage either a multi- or single-user Windows 7 or 10 experience. The service also incorporates Office 365 ProPlus. You can count on WVD to help centralize monitoring and management functions. On the other hand, your organization’s system admins can use Azure Cloud to deploy and manage your company’s Windows servers, desktops, and apps.

WVD leverages Microsoft’s enterprise security solutions to maximize data protection. In turn, your organization scales virtualization requirements without worrying about security. The service provides a cost-effective solution, thanks to the subscription pricing model. Additionally, your team enjoys a richer virtualization experience than the Remote Desktop Services (RDS) platform.

Windows Virtual Desktop

Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD) Benefits

When it comes to traditional virtualization tools versus Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD), the latter provides several advantages over traditional solutions.

Here are the key benefits of switching to Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD).

Reduces Costs

Migrating your organization’s apps and desktops to Azure using the Windows Virtual Desktop service is a viable way to reduce costs. The service enables savings by improving the utilization of critical, cost-intensive resources. Session-based desktops operating on Azure Virtual Machines are more cost-effective.

Microsoft simplifies licensing by eliminating the need for an additional client access license to use Windows 10 via WVD. Server operating systems typically require additional licenses.

Enhanced Compatibility With Office 365

By switching to Azure via Windows Virtual Desktop, your organization benefits from a comprehensive array of cloud-based applications and resources. The best part is that WVD ensures improved integration with wide-ranging Office 365 products. Enhanced compatibility helps improve overall performance in virtual desktop environments.

The boost in performance also applies to additional apps that need reduced latency. Graphics processing capability allows graphics-intensive apps to function optimally in the virtual desktop environment.

Improved Flexibility

Cloud-based solutions like Windows Virtual Desktop simplifies various tasks for end-users and IT staff. Teams benefit from improved flexibility by conveniently accessing the business apps and desktops from any device, browser, or location. Office 365 applications integrate seamlessly with the service, enriching the user experience.

On the other hand, migrating to the cloud reduces IT staff’s workload as they no longer spend increased time managing local networks and physical machines. WVD also makes desktop applications easier to manage, thanks to Windows 7 and 10. Thus, Tech experts create personal and persistent desktops using desktop images.

WVD enhances scalability and flexibility by storing apps and user profiles in different containers.

Persistent and Non-Persistent Desktop Virtualization

With Windows Virtual Desktop, you can take advantage of support for persistent and non-persistent states. The service also supports multi-session and dedicated modes. In addition, users enjoy application and full desktop virtualization experiences.

Stateful VDI or persistent virtual desktop infrastructure allows individual users to operate a dedicated virtual desktop with personalized settings. This state benefits users due to the consistency of custom settings and desktop functionality. In turn, your team members adapt to the virtual desktop environment faster.

However, persistent VDIs are storage-intensive due to the extensive customization and sophisticated desktop image management. It simplifies image management using a centralized portal.

When it comes to non-persistent virtual desktop infrastructure, the system deletes user settings and data at the end of each session. As such, all new sessions deploy a new desktop image. This state minimizes the storage requirements and simplifies image management. You can opt for the non-persistent VDI if you need advanced security and want to reduce storage requirements.

Both persistent and non-persistent VDIs provide a more user-friendly experience. Non-persistent systems rely on FSLogix technology to mimic the user-friendliness of persistent VDIs. Additionally, you can count on non-persistent VDIs to link user profiles to specific computing environments. It attaches the profiles dynamically.

Windows Virtual Desktop Use Cases

With WVD, you find it easier to comply with regulatory requirements and standardize operations. Furthermore, the service allows you to boost workforce flexibility and handle specialized workloads more efficiently. A wide selection of businesses rely on Azure WVD to enhance their remote and office-based teams’ operations.

Windows Virtual Desktop provides a unified solution capable of serving the needs of call center staff, organizations with BYOD policies, and remote staff. The service ensures flexibility by allowing the workforce to use different types of devices. It also helps companies in highly regulated sectors, such as finance and healthcare, meet specific compliance requirements.

Transfer or Backup Google Authenticator in Few Easy Steps

Transfer or Backup Google Authenticator in Few Easy Steps

Two-factor authentication (2FA) plays a critical role in mitigating cybersecurity risks posed by bad actors. This method bolsters access controls by requiring a two-step identity verification when signing into applications. Google Authenticator simplifies this process by enabling users to verify their identity using a smartphone.

When switching to a new phone, you need to transfer the keys. The app maximizes security by ensuring that keys are specific to one device. On the other hand, it does not come with a backup function. By doing so, Google mitigates the risk of cybercriminals gaining unauthorized access to the codes.

However, the lack of a backup function can create significant issues when your smartphone gets broken or lost. With the Google Authenticator app empty, you cannot access specific websites or apps using the two-factor authentication.

 

Backup Options

Thankfully, you can still take advantage of alternative backup options. Here are viable ways to backup Google Authenticator codes.

Write Down the Code

One practical way to backup the code without compromising security is by writing it on a piece of paper. This method eliminates the need for a printer or another mobile device. On the downside, this approach is nonviable on websites that only show the QR code.

Take a Screenshot

Taking a screenshot is another backup option that allows you to store the code on a separate device. This approach makes it easier to re-enter or rescan the code when visiting specific websites that require two-factor authentication.

This method’s advantage is that it is quick and easy, but hackers may still find and compromise the file on your computer. To store the Google Authenticator code securely, consider moving the file to a USB stick.

Backup Code Using a Separate Device

If you have an extra phone, use it to store the code by either scanning or manually entering the QR code. The additional mobile device can be your old phone, your partner’s smartphone, or a work device. This option allows you to backup the codes easily. However, if you backup using a device that you regularly carry while on the go, it is possible to lose both phones resulting in a problem.

Transferring Google Authenticator to a New Phone

To transfer Google Authenticator easily and conveniently, take advantage of the app’s transfer tool. For this process to work seamlessly, ensure that the source and target devices have the latest Authenticator version.

Start the process by tapping the menu icon on the source smartphone before selecting Export accounts and entering the PIN code. Once you verified your identity with the PIN code, select the accounts you intend to transfer and tap Next.

On your target device, open Google Authenticator and tap Get Started before selecting Import existing accounts. You can find this section at the bottom of the screen.

Proceed to the next step by selecting Scan QR code. If the source device has multiple codes that require scanning, simply follow the prompts to complete the transfer process. The system confirms all successful transfers.

If you transfer Google Authenticator from an iPhone, you need to complete additional steps to move the codes successfully.

Transferring Codes Without the Google Authenticator Transfer Tool

In the event that the transfer tool fails to move the accounts, you can resort to the traditional method. This approach entails transferring Authenticator manually by moving accounts one by one.

For this process to work, you should install the application on your new device. Sign in to your Google account via the multi-factor authentication website. You must visit the site using a desktop device. Once you have logged into the account, grab both your mobile phones to begin the transfer process.

In the Authenticator app section, select the Change phone option before entering the type of mobile phone. After that, follow the prompts. Once you complete this stage, scan the code on Google’s authentication website via the application. Verify that the transfer worked correctly by entering the six-digit code. If everything goes well, the codes on the source mobile device become invalid.

You should repeat the same process with all accounts that use Google Authenticator, such as Amazon, Apple, and Facebook. Avoid removing the app from the source smartphone until you have transferred all accounts to the new device. Deleting the Authenticator application before completing all transfers can result in getting locked out of the remaining accounts.

How to Onboard Remote Employees More Efficiently

 

How to Onboard Remote Employees More Efficiently

 

As more companies switch to remote work, employers need to embrace the best onboarding practices to enhance new hires’ experience. Alignment involves updating various tools and processes to ensure seamless onboarding. Additionally, organizations are working tirelessly to leverage productivity hacks for remote teams.

 

Onboarding new employees remotely change the entire experience for both sides. Hence, the company’s approach to onboarding new hires makes a significant difference. A recent Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC) survey in the US revealed that more than 30 percent of managers found coaching and onboarding new employees more challenging since that pandemic started.

 

This reality compels companies to adopt viable policies and approaches to resolve remote onboarding challenges. Resolving these issues is critical, given that the remote work trend will continue into the foreseeable future.

 

On the other hand, streamlining the remote onboarding process comes with significant benefits. These advantages include reducing training or coaching time and increased retention rates. New hires are more likely to stay on the job if the onboarding process helps them understand roles and responsibilities. Well-planned remote onboarding enables new team members to build a connection with colleagues.

 

 

Remote Onboarding Best Practices

 

Onboarding remote employees involve a relatively different process than the traditional procedure. When handled appropriately, the virtual process helps new employees feel a sense of belonging. Thus, schedule several virtual meetings to ensure effective communication. Interactive seminars and training courses help familiarize themselves with organizational processes.

 

Here are the best practices to onboard remote workers more effectively.

 

Invest in the Right Technology

 

The first step to ensuring a smooth onboarding process is to invest in the right technologies, such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom. These tools provide a reliable and secure connection when conducting training and interactive seminars. They provide chat and video meeting functionality to suit your organization’s needs. However, you should ensure that the new hires know how to use these communication tools.

 

Set Onboarding Goals

 

Unlike in-person onboarding processes, virtual introductions require more than just a warm welcome. You need to create a comprehensive list of objectives and procedures to enhance the new employee’s experience. Onboarding virtually may make some individuals feel uncomfortable asking questions. Thus, share the onboarding plan before the scheduled video call. In doing so, you ensure that the new team member knows what to expect.

 

One of the best ways to prepare for the sessions is to compile a detailed checklist of tasks and objectives. For instance, you can plan to complete human resources paperwork, set up Microsoft Teams accounts, and liaise with relevant stakeholders by the end of day one. You can also target to conduct security training and help the new employee get a feel of various tools by the end of the first week.

 

Host Virtual Introductions

 

Hosting a meeting between new hires and the rest of the team helps new members feel welcome and break feelings of isolation. Scheduling the video calls allows you to explain the team structure and generate enthusiasm. In the end, the entire team gets a sense of shared goals.

 

Help the new staff members remember people’s names easily by providing resources to refresh their memory. One way is to present them with a document listing the team members’ names (including photos), contact details, and position in the company. The document can also outline the organizational structure. Update the resource regularly to ensure accuracy.

 

Meeting people via video call makes it difficult to remember the names of team members. The process can be overwhelming.

 

Integrate Company Traditions Into the Onboarding Process

 

If your company has longstanding traditions that enrich the onboarding process, find ways to integrate them into interactive seminars and virtual training sessions. For instance, you can give new hires gift cards to local eateries if your company provides complimentary lunches on specific days. Likewise, you can host happy hours via video conferencing platforms like Microsoft Teams.

 

Assess Employees’ Feedback

 

Once the new hires complete the onboarding process, ask them for feedback. You can achieve this objective by asking the new team members to complete a short survey. In the survey, they can highlight likes and dislikes about various aspects of the onboarding procedures. In addition, encourage the employees to share ideas on how to improve remote onboarding.

 

Schedule Ongoing Check-Ins

 

Regularly checking in with the new staff members allows you to identify any issues and resolve them. Doing so ensures that the new hires feel connected to the onboarding process. Also, pair new team members with carefully selected mentors. This approach allows the new remote staff to avoid feeling isolated.

How To Have a Successful Zoom Call

 

How To Have a Successful Zoom Call

 

When the world went into lockdown, it effectively shut down business for a little while. In the legal world, however, you can’t just stop. This led to law firms and courts using Zoom to conduct hearings and trials. Naturally, this caused some issues. If you are not comfortable with Zoom, you run the risk of making a fool of yourself unintentionally. Follow this guide to ensure your Zoom meeting goes off without a hitch.

 

 

Familiarize Yourself

 

The more you know about a product, the easier it is to use. This is true with Zoom. If you know you will have to do Zoom calls, you need to understand how to use the program. You DO NOT want to wait until the last minute and try to figure everything out. Zoom offers free, unlimited 45-minute sessions, so it is easy to go in to explore the options.

 

Audio and Video

 

When you are participating in a Zoom call, it is essential that you know how to turn your microphone on and off. When you turn on Zoom, it will prompt you to turn your volume on. You can turn it off by clicking on mute in the lower left-hand corner.

 

You will want to be muted whenever you are not talking, so any background noises you have are not disturbing the meeting. You will also want to make sure that you remember to unmute yourself every time you go to talk. A trick is to hold the spacebar down if you will only be speaking for a brief period.

 

You also want to be aware of how to turn the video on and off. When you enter the meeting, you will want your video to be on, and generally, it will stay on the entire time. However, if something comes up, and you don’t want your background showing for whatever reason, you can turn off your video by clicking stop video.

 

Background

 

Zoom has a background feature, and you can set virtually any image as your background. You can choose something as simple as a colored background, select an image on your device, or download premade zoom backgrounds and upload them.

 

You can set your background ahead of time by going into your zoom settings and selecting virtual background. You can also do it when you are in the meeting. If you click on the video arrow, you can choose the background and select an image there.

 

Sharing Screen

 

Depending on the settings of the person hosting the Zoom, you may have the ability to share your screen. You will want to try this out because you have to have the window you are trying to share actively open in order to share it. Otherwise, when you click on Screen Share, you won’t have access to that tab.

 

Screen share also has a whiteboard function. So you can essentially share a whiteboard and either write or type information on it. It will then display on everyone else’s screens who are in the Zoom.

 

Finally, you can also share multiple screens at the same time via the screen share option.

 

Waiting Room

 

If you are hosting a zoom, you will want to enable a waiting room. This means that anyone who enters your zoom link will be placed in a virtual waiting room and cannot enter until you allow them to. This is helpful because it allows you to control who does and does not enter the Zoom. It is common for people to try to “Zoom Bomb” meetings and do inappropriate things. With the waiting room, you can only let in people you know are supposed to be there.

 

Personal Meeting Room

 

If you will be hosting a lot of Zoom calls, you should set up a Personal Meeting Room. This is your own private zoom, and you can call it whatever you want. It starts with https://zoom.us/my/, and then you fill in how you want it to end. You will want to keep it simple, so people can easily remember it. Whenever you need to host a meeting, you open up your Zoom application and click start, and it will begin the Zoom. You can then let in anyone trying to access the Zoom.

 

Touch-Up

 

If you look exhausted or have poor lighting, you can use the touch-up feature to provide a soft-focus on your screen. This helps you look professional and polished in very little time. To access this feature, go to Zoom settings and then click video, and finally select touch-up my appearance.

 

Filters

 

Zoom does have a variety of filters you can use during your video call. To access them while in Zoom, click on the arrow next to the video icon and select filters. You can select any filter that is listed there. To turn the filter off, go back into the same area and click on none under filters.

Practice

 

Once you have played around with Zoom’s different features, set up a practice Zoom call with someone. It really does not matter who. Go through the different Zoom features while you are on the call, and make sure you know how to turn everything on AND off.

Zoom Master

 

It’s also a good idea to have someone in the company be a Zoom Master. This means they know Zoom inside and out, and if you are having any issues, you can call them to save the day. Make sure this person is always available during any Zoom calls, so you aren’t frantically trying to find someone to fix your issue.

 

If someone in your company isn’t willing to do this, reach out to your IT department and have them explain everything to you to make sure you have a thorough understanding of how everything works. If your IT department doesn’t do this for you, reach out to us, and we will be happy to help.

 

We want to help you with your technology needs. Contact us today to see how we can help.