Remote business is a growing trend that is attracting more and more people. The idea of working from any location in the world, setting your own working hours, and having a better work-life balance appeals to many people. That’s also what my life looks like and is what I wish for everyone. But how do you start remote business, and what do you need to be successful? In this blog, I share valuable tips and insights to get you started.
What is remote business?
Remote entrepreneurship involves running a business without being tied to a physical location. This can range from freelance work to setting up an entire business operating remotely. Thanks to advances in technology and the growing acceptance of flexible working, it is possible to build a team, serve clients worldwide, and grow your business; all from your ideal place of work. This can be anywhere in the world. Although I do advise against a cabin in the jungle, because you won’t have good wifi there.
Benefits of remote working
- Flexibility: You can set your own working hours and work at times that best suit your lifestyle.
- Cost savings: Without renting a physical office space, you save significantly on rent and other related business expenses.
- Access to global talent: You can work with people from around the world, giving you access to a wide range of skills and perspectives.
- Improved work-life balance: The ability to plan your workday around your personal life can lead to better balance and less stress.
Challenges of remote enterprise
While I could have gone on and on with the list of benefits, there are also challenges associated with remote business. Of course, it’s not all roses when it comes to working remotely. The most common challenges we often encounter are:
- Self-discipline: Without the structure of a traditional workplace, you have to find the motivation and discipline yourself to stay productive. You don’t have colleagues around you to follow their good example.
- Communication: Ensure effective communication with team members, associates and/or clients. Keep each other informed. Working in different time zones can be challenging.
- Work-life balance: You will undoubtedly do many fun things at your new place, make sure that the work-life balance remains good. Make a good schedule and put your leisure activities in it as well.
Tips for successful remote enterprise
Working outside your familiar environment can present additional challenges. But at the same time, you are also in for a really great time, full of new discoveries. Sometimes you notice that there are some prejudices about working remotely. So that’s why it’s extra important to prepare yourself well so that you come across as professional. To take full advantage of the benefits of remote business and overcome the challenges, here are some tips:
1. Invest in reliable technology
- Make sure you have a good Internet connection, because without it your whole operation will grind to a halt. You really need to have this in order to be taken seriously.
- Get a backup with good Wi-Fi, such as a large data bundle, mobile router or Starlink. That way you can get your work done anytime, anywhere.
- Invest in cloud solutions and collaboration software such as Slack, Zoom, and Google Workspace to manage your work efficiently.
2. Create a productive workplace
- Provide a quiet, comfortable and well-equipped workplace. Preferably an ergonomic chair, a good desk and a laptop stand. That way, you won’t accidentally ruin your back when working from a different place.
- Keep your workplace separate from your private spaces to maintain a clear separation between work and leisure.
- For example, choose a coworking space, where you can subscribe by the day, week or month.
3. Set clear goals
- Start each week with a schedule. Set clear goals and priorities for what you want to accomplish that week.
- Use tools such as Trello, Asana or Notion to organize your projects and tasks.
4. Work on your self-discipline
- Stick to a set work schedule, even if you have the freedom to choose when you work. This helps build routine and increase your productivity. It’s a good stick if you have yet to find your way around working online.
- Avoid distractions and resist the temptation to constantly do fun things in your new place. I can tell you that this is quite a challenge.
5. Keep learning and adapting
- Remote business requires constant adaptation to new forms of work and workplaces. Be flexible in this and discover what works for you.
- Network with other remote entrepreneurs and travelers to exchange experiences and gain new insights.
Conclusion
Remote business offers unprecedented opportunities for freedom and flexibility, but it also requires discipline, planning, and good balance. By setting up your workplace properly, investing in technology, and setting clear goals, you can meet the challenges of remote business. This will allow you to build a successful business no matter where you are in the world. Whether you dream of working on a tropical island or simply want to avoid traffic jams, with the right approach, remote business can be a life-changing step toward a new way of working.
Learn more about workations and remote working:
- A workation in Asia: the ultimate guide for digital nomads
- How Alieke created a remote (work) life
- The 8 great benefits of working remotely abroad
