7 Signs Working Virtually is Working for You

1. You are a step ahead of your manager.

This sounds like “Funny you should mention that, this topic was brought up at the leadership team this morning.”

2. You are asking the right questions.

This shows that you are listening to the bigger picture and not over-looking the little undertones. I love the simplicity of Chris Voss: Mirroring. "It is simply repeating what someone just said. It creates more reception from the other side, it focuses attention and it gives them an opportunity to dial in more with you and you to dial in more with them."

3. You continue to have strategic ideas and you get excited about them.

Perhaps not every one gets traction. Have confidence that saying your ideas out loud creates space for the bigger and better ones to form. The creative and relevent ideas typically come well beyond idea number 30. What number are you at?

4. Your day flies by.

Most days you missed lunch and your head is still whirling once you’ve shut down the computer and walked away from your office. Perhaps you are missing the traditional commute that allowed you the time and space to de-compress before heading home.

5. You are happy.

More often than not, you are comfortable with your new virtual reality and have accepted it for the long haul. Life has adjusted at home and positive thoughts are winning over the inevitable frustrations that life and work will bring.

6. You are feeling confident about the work you are doing.

While the current situation continues to feel chaotic, confusing and even overwhelming, you are able to find ways to add value. You continue to navigate your way through each challenge. Your passion is still there. It's simply toned down now that the anxieties of balancing work, commute, kids and home have tipped in your favor.

7. Climbing the corporate ladder is not top priority.

One cannot ignore the importance of ‘presence’. This is especially true for many strategic and senior level roles. Let's not sugar coat the reality that there is an element of presence missing in the virtual office. Accept this and working virtually may end up working for many of you.