Having a virtual work-from-home platform can be hugely beneficial to a business but how does one go about doing it? Getting started can seem daunting but we can help you make a smooth transition. Before switching to a virtual platform, you must decide how you will hire and train employees, what type of equipment you will use, and what additional resources your employees will need. Determining a strict work-from-home program is essential to maintaining control.

Once this is established you will need to consider the different employment models. The first model consists of hiring independent contractors who are responsible for their own payroll taxes and they might be subject to business incorporation fees. It is important to note that the taxes these contractors incur are tax deductible and the advantage for contractors is that this structure allows them to work on multiple contracts. The second model is more traditional where the employee receives the same benefits as a brick and mortar employee. This may be more expensive to the employer but the employees’ loyalty and motivation is the payout. With this model, many companies prefer to hire employees from a certain radius or drive-time. An example of this solution is JetBlue who requires its virtual platform employees to live within two hours of their Salt Lake City facility. Having agents live relatively close may be a good idea if you want them to come in for training or have periodical “check-ins.” Many companies have agents begin at physical facility and later allow them the ability to work from home. A third option is to simply hire employees regardless of location. With this method employees would go through virtual training which may become more popular as many students and entry level workers are becoming accustomed to the online-course model.

Upon deciding which model works best for your company you can determine what equipment your employees will provide themselves and what you will provide them. Most businesses that use the virtual platform provide their agents with their own PCs although the employees must obtain their own high-speed internet while others require that employees provide their own computers (as long as they meet system requirements). It’s also a good idea to tell employees that they must dedicate a room or area in their home that is quiet and free of distractions while they work. After you have worked out these details you will be on your way to using one of the most innovative and beneficial work models.