Doing Business in a Virtual World

Monday, December 5 2022

Judy Preszcator – “If it is important to you, you will find a way. If not, you’ll find an excuse*.” It’s really very simple, isn’t it? It puts things into perspective when doing business in a virtual world today.

Change in the world and in business is both constant and inevitable. We can’t stop or control it. But what we can do is choose how we respond. We find a way to make it work…. or find an excuse.

Business in a Virtual World

For some, doing business virtually has become a necessary means to survive. The virtual environment has changed the way we do business, and some leaders say they fear that if they don’t embrace technology, they will be left behind and their doors will close.

When it comes to change due to technological advances, we have choices:

  • Love it.
  • Despise it.
  • Quit over it.
  • Find a way to embrace it.

One obvious example of how technology has changed the workplace is the dilemma over working at the office vs working from home. Trust becomes a question on both sides. Leaders may feel concerned that those who work from home are not being productive, although some studies have shown the opposite to be true**. Employees may be concerned that technology is giving their leaders an opportunity to spy on them.

For some, there is still uncertainty as to what the future holds when it comes to working from home or the office.

Trust is Important

In the meantime, trust is the one attribute of an effective leader that can ease the pain of a changing work environment. The ways a leader can build high trust are easy and simple:

  • Do what you say you’re going to do.
  • Treat people with respect and recognize how they would like to be treated.
  • Understand what motivates a person.
  • Provide timely and meaningful feedback.
  • Develop your team by coaching them to succeed and be accountable.
  • Communicate the vision of the company.
  • Define clear roles and responsibilities.

Through our Results-Centred Leadership program, we can help you build your current leadership skills. Additionally, we offer a variety of complementary development surveys. Contact us to learn more!

*Ryan Blair

**Statistics Canada, April 21, 2021