Category: Blog

Advancements in communication technology have led to a new shift in how people work. Traditionally, millions of employers and employees made their way to the long-established “office” from Monday-Friday, 9-5. With the invention of smartphones, laptops, and fast home internet connections, a growing number of people now telecommute to work. As remote work becomes increasingly more commonplace, more businesses are forming distributed teams across states and countries. However, as the remote workforce grows, questions arise: What is the best way to keep remote teams connected and remote employees accountable?

Remote Team Management: 6 Helpful Tips

Employers and businesses’ main challenges when working with remote teams are lack of productivity, time management skills, and social interaction. If you have cultivated a robust remote workforce and want to ensure that they can keep up from remote locations, then read on to learn how to keep remote teams connected.

1. Work with the Cloud

Cloud technology allows all of your employees and managers to access company documents and communication tools via the internet. As such, the cloud encourages sharing of content and collaboration in real-time and sending group or individual updates out to your team, setting reminders, updating tasks, and more.

2. Use Social Media

Social media networking sites offer your team the chance to show off their creativity and collaborate effectively. You can find a whole list of niche social media networking sites that offer your team a platform to showcase their work, communicate, and collaborate. Social media is an excellent tool for global remote groups working because it allows them to maintain contact despite their various locations.

3. Stay Connected with Virtual Phone Numbers

If your team works remotely, consider using virtual phone numbers to maintain connectivity. Virtual phone numbers route calls over the internet and come with various virtual communication features. Users can use a virtual business number from any location and any device.

Therefore, if you are dealing with similar clients, you can provide one virtual phone number for them to call, and you can then have the call forwarded to an available person on the team. This is especially important for employees working from different states or countries. Since virtual lines are local, callers will not have to pay a hefty international fee to make a business call.

4. Plan Gatherings and Get-Togethers

If resources allow, meet in-person from time-to-time. In-person meetings are a great way to get a bunch of employees to work as a team. Whenever possible, bring everyone together for a face-to-face meeting. It doesn’t have to be all about business either; plan special outings together like an annual trip or a bonding expedition.

5. Train in Time Management

It is vital that your remote team works in an organized way and consistently meets or exceeds expectations. If possible, set up an opportunity for your remote team to take part in a time management training session to learn tips on organizing and planning out their workdays.

You shouldn’t assume that just because someone is right for the job, they are good at managing times. And for employees who have mastered managing time, it wouldn’t hurt to participate as they may have the opportunity to learn new tips and tricks to make them even better at what they do.

6. Using Technology to Interact Socially

Set a time to check in with your remote employees; daily, weekly, or monthly phone calls. You can also keep in contact through email or chat. When you have to schedule meetings and some workers cannot travel to the location, be sure to set up a video conferencing call so your remote employees can feel as if they are in the same room. Use content and project management systems so that everyone can stay up-to-date on the progress of projects.

Revisit Remote Management Techniques

Managing a remote team comes with its own set of issues. It is essential that as a manager of a remote unit, you have a strong and trusting relationship with your employees. This can be hard to cultivate when employees do not work close to one another. The best way for a manager to keep their long-distance relationships healthy is to train your managers on the remote working tools. Some examples include connecting via virtual phone numbers, chat tools, and video conferencing. A manager should also be in charge of setting up digital networks, helping employees bond with one another over personal stories or sharing relatable memes. It may not seem like remote workers need this kind of connection with their coworkers, but a good relationship with management and others can keep a great employee with your company for a long time to come.

For more information about virtual phone numbers and remote working tools, speak with our experts at United World Telecom. Call us at 1 (877) 898 8646 or chat with us online!

Cloud communication is one of the best digital advancements made in the past ten years. It is an evolution of the VoIP infrastructure and it delivers data and voice communications on a network of powerful servers that allows your information to be delivered instantly. The information is stored and delivered by a third-party that allows multiple organizations access to a single hosting site.

This hosting site is also run through the internet, which was not possible in the not-so-distant past. Internet communication was not as reliable a decade ago as it is now in 2025, and previously, many hosted telephone companies had to rely on expensive data. These new strides in technology have made virtual phone numbers more convenient for businesses as well as individuals. Interested in learning more? Read on to find out why cloud communications for virtual phone numbers is one of the best digital trends for 2025.

It’s Affordable

Cloud-based phone systems are among the most affordable options from virtual phone providers since customers only pay for what they use. Your money goes towards the Broadband charges and a subscription fee. Everything else that you need for your virtual phone number, as well as any handling of problems or issues that may arise, are provided by the subscription service. Also, just because you are cutting costs using cloud-based technology services does not mean that you have to sacrifice features.

Nearly all Businesses Can Benefit

Cloud communications have been generally used for e-commerce, payment processing, advertising, and human resources. Cloud-based communication is also a wonderful tool for operating multiple call centers, meaning that you can expand your business to nearly anywhere in the world.

It’s Good for Small Businesses

Small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from cloud communication technology because of its affordability and the expertise the business can receive from its phone provider. Whereas a larger business can use their indispensable capital towards an in-house VoIP setup, a smaller business most likely does not have the capital to maintain an expensive telecommunication setup full-time.

You Can Shop Around

There are plenty of places to purchase a virtual phone number working on cloud communications. In the past, you might have had to choose a local or regional provider, but because of the way cloud communications work, you can now choose from any virtual phone provider.

You Can Access the Cloud From Any Device

Traditionally, IT communications were not able to handle serving multiple devices. Cloud communications can be accessed from where you are with any device that has a WiFi connection or data, such as your iPhone, computer, or tablet. New cloud technology has also helped many new businesses grow quickly while working from home because the only thing that is required is a strong internet connection.

Some Devices Don’t Work Without it

A lot of new devices are designed to work with cloud communications and aren’t compatible with older methods of communication. The iPhone, VoIP handsets, and modern printers need to be able to access cloud networks in order to function.

Cloud Does it All

Cloud communication has grown so rapidly in popularity because of how versatile it is. These communication services are so diverse, offering video, voice, and data. In the past, telecommunications systems were only built around voice. The Cloud now allows all three of these necessary modes of communication to work together, as well as separately in a single place.

Collaboration Across the Globe

One of the most important aspects of the Cloud is that it allows seamless communication between people in different parts of the world. This is why the Cloud is great for international businesses; communication across cultures has never been easier. Even if your business is located in New York and you have several clients in California, you will have instant access to them through the Cloud at any point in the day. This includes video conferencing, call forwarding features that allow you to forward calls when you are out of the office, and group messaging between team members.

Many businesses have decided to go global to compete, but the competition has become more fierce in recent years because of the influx of businesses expanding, not only in America, but abroad as well. A product that might do well in America may be able to sell even more in markets like Japan or India. If you are thinking of taking your business abroad, then you may be able to get a leg up on the competition by following these tips.

Competition is a Good Thing

As the number of competing businesses grow, so do the number of opportunities. New markets are opening all the time and existing markets are always expanding. New and old businesses should be prepared to take hold of new opportunities whenever they are presented. Thanks to huge improvements in technology and the telecom industry, almost any business can be easily equipped for international business.

International Virtual Phone Numbers

One of the most accessible pieces of technology available to a business is an international virtual phone number. These phone numbers are affordable and very popular with a variety of businesses. International virtual phone numbers work like any other phone number except that they are not bound to one single device. The number can be used to take inbound calls or make outbound calls from multiple devices. The best part is that the number can be hosted in your home country, yet international customers will still have access to your business.

The international virtual phone number is hosted on a Call Forwarding system that redirects phone calls from international territories to a local phone line. For example, a caller in the United Kingdom will be forwarded to your chosen local line in America. The caller from the UK will also not have to incur extra international calling fees. The customer saves money while your business saves money by not having to build international offices and hire new employees. If it is your end-goal to eventually build offices abroad, an international virtual phone number is a great way to establish roots in a new market.

Benefits of Using an International Virtual Phone Number

The strides made in telecom technology have created an easy path for more and more businesses to expand overseas. Because the virtual phone number matches a local number used in the foreign country or city of your choosing, the customer will not realize that the call is actually being answered in another country. This is important because many customers will not want to purchase your products if they cannot reach you by telephone. If a customer has a question about a product or wants to discuss exchanges, returns, or they simply want to let you know that they enjoy your product, they will hardly be eager to have to call an international phone number and incur charges to their phone bill.

International phone numbers can be used to enhance your business’ public image. You can control the image you want your business to convey by branding your business as a large and successful global company by having several points of contact in multiple foreign nations. Even if you are running your business from your kitchen island, you can still portray an image of being a big deal.

Purchasing an international virtual phone number will allow you to have a presence all over the world for a very low cost. You will save on international offices and a new international staff.

International virtual phone numbers also allow your company to maintain business relationships with contacts in foreign countries. Communication is key in every relationship and very important when you decide to take your business abroad.

United World Telecom offers a variety of international phone numbers in over 140 different countries. They also offer a variety of plans and access to features contingent upon your business’ needs. Whether you own a small business or are operating a large corporation, there are options that will enable you to obtain the international phone numbers you need. To learn more call us at 1 (888) 908-6171.

A virtual office means that you can work from anywhere in the world. The internet has made it easier than ever for businesses to be built from the ground-up, all from the comfort of your own home. Many workers can telecommute to work because of the ease and reliability of the internet today. However, working from home or anywhere outside of a traditional office setting has both its advantages and disadvantages. Many businesses are choosing to take advantage of virtual offices because of the savings on office space rentals, tech, food, office supplies, and insurance. We have compiled a few tips for building a virtual office to enhance your business.

Some critics of virtual offices believe that working from home makes workers more susceptible to distractions such as family or friends, and they think that workers won’t be as productive as they would be if they were to work in a regular office environment. If you are thinking about taking your business into the virtual world, or if you already do telecommute, then check out these tips to help you create a productive virtual office space that will guarantee efficiency, creativity, and an increase in cash.

1. Get a phone system

In business, you will inevitably need to be able to connect quickly and efficiently with your employees, co-workers, clients, and customers. Many virtual phone systems offer forwarding and routing services to anywhere in the world. These phone systems help customers and clients get in contact with the right person in the business that they need to talk to. The phone system can often greet the customer automatically and then offer them a variety of options so that they can get into contact with the right department. It doesn’t matter if your sales manager is in Florida and your customer service agent is in Iowa.

2. Meet new-hires in person

If you are the boss, you should make it a point to try to meet everyone you work with at least once. It might not be financially possible for some companies to fly out managers to meet new employees or vice versa. Be that as it may, luckily, technology exists and if you can’t meet “in-person” you can still meet “face-to-face” kinda. Through Skype, Viber, Google Hangouts, and a host of other video calling apps, it is now possible to connect with and see others without leaving your living room.

3. Hold meetings

If your co-workers or employees are located within the same area, then you can hold in-person business meetings as much as you think necessary. Whether these meetings occur on a monthly, bi-monthly, or yearly basis, there are plenty of places that can host your group. Since you do not have access to your office building, you can set-up a meeting time at hotels with conference rooms, coffee shops, and you can even find some companies who are willing to rent out their free spaces to other businesses for meetings as well.

4. Communicate often and effectively

Since you can’t just walk over to Susan’s cubicle to talk to her about a marketing campaign, you need to have the next best thing. Staying in constant contact on Google Chat is an easy way to get answers fast from your employees. If something can wait more than five minutes, then you can always send an email. Be sure that your employees are aware that they need to be plugged in and ready to answer questions, emails, and phone calls while they are at work.

5. Establish a time management policy

The best thing about telecommuting to work is that you can typically make your own hours. However, it’s important to know when your employees are working so that you can quickly get in contact with them. Virtual offices also need to establish how long each person will be working a day and what is expected to be completed of them. This way everyone can plan their days accordingly.

6. Foster relationships between co-workers

It is highly encouraged to set up team building events for your employees if they can all attend. If your team is located all around the world, then it may be a bit harder to meet up for happy hour after work. Instead, you can set up a non-work-related Facebook group or chat group. It also helps to remember birthdays and share personal news and special occasions. If you know that one of your co-workers or employees is getting married, be sure to send them an e-greeting card or shoot them a congratulatory text. A little bit of effort goes a long way in creating relationships.

7. Encourage productivity with competitions

To make sure that your team is being as productive as possible, offer incentives for hard work. This can be done through bonuses or contests between employees. Set goals for the team and award prizes to those who reach milestones before everyone else. You will soon see your profits rise and your employees get excited about work.

8. Set boundaries

Working from home can genuinely be distracting if you live with a spouse, roommates, or children. When you decide to start working for the day be sure to let your family and friends know that you can be reached after you’re done. Shut the door to your office, if possible, and shut out any distractions that aren’t work-related. If your office is the kitchen or another high traffic area in your home, consider heading to a coffee shop.

Toll free telephone numbers are used as a tool for businesses to incur the charges that would normally be charged to the customer trying to reach them. It is important for businesses to offer easy ways for their customers to contact them. Companies who provide free and simple ways to communicate with their customers become successful because they are able to establish brand loyalty.

Brand loyalty is created through the building of a relationship and trust with their customers, which can only be done through communication. But what is the history behind toll free phone numbers?

Automatic Collect Calling

In 1967, AT&T decided it was time to reduce the number of collect calls and allow their phone operators a much-needed break. They called it “automatic collect calling” and we know it as toll free numbers today. Right away, automatic collect calling grew in popularity in specific industries such as car rental companies and hotels since they took many phone calls a day for reservations.

The first call center was created, and its job was to host 800 numbers for a variety of companies. The first call center did not last and eventually went out of business. However, businesses still wanted to keep their toll free phone numbers. The need for companies to have their own 800 numbers prompted them to create their own independent call centers, all located in Omaha, Nebraska. It was the easiest place to start a call center because AT&T had an office there and would set up call centers in just one day. Whereas in other parts of the US it could take up to several weeks. Because of the quick turnaround time and huge congregation of call centers, the town earned the nickname, “Res City.”

The business model still wasn’t perfect, though. The reason so many businesses were choosing the same spot was that companies needed two 800 numbers; one for in-state and one for out-of-state calls. Everything that was out of state would be rerouted to AT&T, and because AT&T was right there in Omaha, it was able to handle the barrage of out-of-state-calls.

The Introduction of Customizable 800 Numbers

Luckily, by 1981, AT&T updated their system. New technology allowed AT&T to sort all calls through to a “central clearinghouse.” Along with these technological upgrades came the ability to offer customized 800 numbers, which was the beginning of vanity numbers. However, vanity numbers were not yet affordable to all companies because toll free numbers were under one monopoly. The FCC stepped in in 1984 and broke up the monopoly. Since regional companies had access to the technology, the companies were then able to offer competitive rates. Vanity numbers began to take off in popularity because they were affordable. Furthermore, businesses had the opportunity to switch telephone providers without having to go through an expensive and drawn out process because a law instated in 1994 guaranteed phone number portability.

After 1994, vanity and toll free numbers weren’t just fashionable, they became a critical business staple. It was the smartest choice for any company that wanted to operate on a national level to have one phone number to satisfy all of their clients throughout the US. Soon the demand for these 800 numbers outweighed the supply, and new toll free numbers had to be introduced. These new prefixes include 855, 866, 877, and 888.

Toll Free Numbers: A Business Staple

After the introduction of cell phones and the internet, the need for toll free numbers abated from its original fast rise in popularity. Today, the toll free number has changed from a business staple into a sign of professionalism and trust in a business. That does not mean that toll free numbers have not kept up with the changes in technology, however. Now 800 numbers can be routed directly to personal cell phones as well as call centers. It has taken over 50 years, but now home-based businesses, sole proprietorships, and small start-ups can afford toll free phone numbers which are the mark of professionalism, previously only a luxury available to the largest corporations.

If you are interested in setting up a toll free number or vanity number for your business, check out the available toll free numbers and vanity numbers that are available from UnitedWorldTelecom.com.