We firmly recommend that every remote team member be equipped with a second monitor and a headset featuring a dynamic microphone, particularly for those in customer service or sales. 

‍A second monitor enables team members to have multiple screens active, making it easier to toggle between web apps, browsers, communication platforms like Slack, and complete tasks more efficiently. We love these products that are available in the Philippines and also other countries:
 
·      AcerMonitor KA242Y 22” (under $100)
‍·      SamsungLS22C310EAEXXP 22" (under $100)
‍·      LG32MR50C-B. This screen is 32" - gives more room to open more windows/tabs and probably won’t need a 2nd monitor with a monitor this size (under $200) 

‍A headset with a dynamic microphone greatly enhances audio quality, which is especially important when working with international team members, many of whom speak English as a second language. Poor audio can significantly hinder their ability to be understood by customers over the phone.

Dynamic microphones reduce background noise and improve speech clarity, ensuring clearer communication. For remote virtual assistants, such as those from the Philippines or other regions, clear audio is crucial, particularly during customer interactions.

This type of microphone helps eliminate surrounding noise and distractions from other voices. We love these models of headsets:
 
·      JabraEvolve2 30 (around $100) - highly recommended.
·      LogitechH540 (around $50) - cheaper alternative with similar features

Both headsets offer a noise cancelling microphone for that truly professional sound. Both are durable and comfortable.


Tip: Request that your candidate share information about their laptop model, age, and processor specifications. It’s typically not necessary for you to provide a laptop for a new team member, and discovering this information early can help you avoid issues with slow or unreliable devices.

Your international team member will require a phone service to stay in touch with you, your customers, and vendors. While we suggest two specific providers, there are PLENTY of excellent options available. 

‍Zoiper - unique offerings such as CRM integration, fax support and a user-friendly tabbed interface. They have a free forever version and also have a paid version for $59 licensing (one time payment). 

‍Openphone - phone system that combines business calls, texts, and contacts into a single app.It's designed to help businesses and teams streamline communication. Price starts at $ 15per user per month. 

‍Dialpad - a cloud-based communication platform that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help businesses collaborate and communicate with customers. It combines voice calls, video meetings, messaging, and contact centers into one app. 

‍Linphone - offers robust options like HD audio/video calls, comprehensive call management, and high-level security features and it’s free.

Don’t grant bank access to your international team members. 

Many of our clients use services like Revolut or Ramp to issue virtual credit cards for team members who need to handle bills or pay vendors.
These platforms allow you to control permissions, set spending limits, and track purchases with ease.

Zoom is key for video calls. Straightforward, dependable, with tools like screen sharing and recording. Use it for team talks, client calls, or training. It keeps everyone aligned, no matter the distance. 

‍Slack is a solid tool for daily communication. It keeps everyone linked. Fast, dependable, and simple to use. Create channels for teams or projects to keep chats in order. And don’t skip the fun ones (like a coffee machine channel to chat casually). Work should have its moments. 

‍Google Meet works seamlessly with G-Suite. You can schedule and join meetings right from your calendar. No downloads or add-ons needed. It’s simple and works great if your team uses Google tools. 

When a live meeting isn’t necessary, you can use Loom. They let you record and share short videos. Whether explaining a process or giving feedback, these tools help you get the message across without scheduling another meeting.

Notion is a strong tool that keeps everything in one spot. Use it to create, share, and track projects. Link your work to custom databases for better organization and control. Our friends at Zapier have made a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to use Notion, you can find it here. 

‍Reclaim.ai is a smart scheduling tool that helps you manage your time more efficiently. It automatically schedules tasks, meetings, and reminders based on your availability and priorities. It syncs with your calendar and adapts to changes, helping you stay organized without the hassle of constant rescheduling. 

‍Monday.com is a work management platform that helps teams plan, track, and collaborate on projects. It uses customizable boards to organize tasks, set timelines, assign responsibilities, and monitor progress. It's designed to keep everyone aligned, whether you're managing a small project or a large team. Simple, flexible, and visual, it adapts to any workflow.

Be clear about when and how bonuses are earned. Set strong KPIs and track progress - weekly, monthly, quarterly. Your team should always know where they stand. No surprises about whether a bonus is coming or not. 

‍How you handle pay advances or extra funds for equipment depends on the company. We suggest saying NO to advances when team members ask for money for generators or gear. Get a list of needed equipment from each candidate before they start.

When hiring from the Philippines, understanding their culture is key. They have unique customs and holidays. Respect these differences. 

Ask your team about the holidays they celebrate. Plan around these dates to avoid disruptions and show you value their traditions. 

Keep in mind, they may work through U.S. holidays. Be clear with your expectations and flexible with schedules.
Flexibility keeps your team happy and effective. Respecting culture builds trust. It’s a simple way to make your team feel valued.

Leapsome is a performance management and employee development platform. It helps businesses streamline processes like goal setting, feedback, performance reviews, and employee engagement. The platform allows managers to track individual and team progress, align objectives, and foster growth through continuous feedback. It's designed to enhance productivity and strengthen workplace culture by making performance management more transparent and data-driven. 

‍Phished.io is a cybersecurity training platform that focuses on phishing prevention. It offers simulated phishing attacks to help organizations train employees on how to recognize and avoid phishing scams. The platform tracks user responses and provides feedback, aiming to raise awareness and reduce the risk of cyberattacks through employee education. It’s designed to help businesses strengthen their security by building a more informed workforce. 

Setup a strong password system. Use password managers to create and store tough passwords safely. Think about adding MFA with tools like Google Authenticator. 

Create solid data loss prevention (DLP) rules. Focus on protecting your data, not just limiting access. A strong DLP policy lets you track and control sensitive info, cutting the risk of breaches and keeping your data secure. More on creating the data loss prevention policy you can find here.

We handle recruiting and sourcing, but the client is responsible for onboarding, training, and managing new hires. We don’t control or oversee these areas. As a result, we aren’t liable for outcomes tied to the client’s decisions, including performance, legal compliance, or other risks. Clients should seek their own legal or professional advice when necessary.