06/ 06/ 2006
by Vicki Gerson
Corporate downsizing has left numerous responsible and motivated people looking for work. Many of them are middle-aged and tech savvy, some have MBAs, but most are looking for new ways to work. Even those who don't want to relocate their families can be great assets to your business as remote workers.
It isn't always easy finding responsible workers you never or rarely see. In order to find good remote workers for your company, you need to develop a system to screen potential employees online and on the telephone. Consider placing want ads in the local newspapers and online to get started.
When developing a screening process, consider the following tips:
- Create a simple job application form that you can e-mail to candidates. Include a space for job history for the last 10 years. Also, be sure to leave a space for references and contact information.
- Once he or she has filled out the application form, send the candidate more information about your company's products and services. If you have a Web site, suggest the candidate visit it for insight into your company as well. Depending upon your business, ask the candidate to prepare a sample sales letter, product sheet or service pitch for your review.
- After reviewing the candidate's application—and if he or she appears qualified—set up a telephone interview. During the phone conversation, look for someone with good telephone skills, a pleasant speaking voice and the ability to answer your questions satisfactorily.
- Set up a probationary period. Don't make a long-term commitment. Instead, schedule a probationary period for 60 or 90 days. Clarify in writing the exact terms of the contract, such as sales commissions, the return of unsold merchandise or base salary. Other issues to include may be reimbursement for mileage, long-distance phone calls and other important expenses. You might also want to have your lawyer carefully look over this agreement to make sure it is in your company's best interests.
Putting together a virtual team is not always easy, but it can work. You or your manager should stay in touch with any remote workers on a weekly basis, if not more frequently. If you don't have a toll-free number, be sure to get one. You should also consider purchasing each of your remote employees a personal computer and color printer for presentations, meetings and correspondence.
If you think finding remote workers sounds too time-consuming, consider hiring a national employment agency for the screening process. You have to get involved only when the agency has narrowed the selection down to the top candidates.
