How to Collaborate with Your Team Remotely

Remote Collaboration

Working remotely doesn't mean working alone. Here's how to collaborate effectively.

Communication Tools

For Quick Messages: Teams Chat

• Instant responses
• Informal communication
• Great for quick questions
• Can see if colleagues are available

For Discussions: Video Calls

• Face-to-face interaction
• Better for complex topics
• Body language and tone visible
• Build stronger relationships

For Documentation: Email

• Formal communication
• Keeps a record
• For external contacts
• When detailed explanation needed

Sharing and Working on Files

OneDrive and SharePoint

• Store files in the cloud
• Share with specific people
• Everyone accesses same version
• No emailing files back and forth

Co-Authoring Documents

Work on documents together in real-time:

• Save file to OneDrive or SharePoint
• Open in Word, Excel, or PowerPoint
• Others open the same file
• See each other's changes instantly
• Changes save automatically

Sharing Files

To share a file:

• Right-click the file in OneDrive
• Click Share
• Enter colleague's email
• Choose permissions (view or edit)
• Send

Project Management

Microsoft Planner

Organise team tasks:

• Create task boards
• Assign tasks to team members
• Track progress
• See who's doing what

Microsoft To Do

For personal task management:

• Create task lists
• Set due dates
• Prioritise work

Staying in Sync

Regular Check-ins

• Daily stand-ups (quick team meetings)
• Weekly team meetings
• One-on-ones with manager

Status Updates

Keep team informed:

• Update your Teams status
• Share progress in team channels
• Don't wait to be asked

Availability

Let people know when you're available:

• Set working hours in Outlook
• Update Teams status
• Block focus time in calendar

Tips for Remote Collaboration

Over-communicate

When working remotely:

• Share more than you would in office
• Assume people don't know
• Check in regularly

Be Responsive

• Reply to messages promptly
• If you'll be away, say so
• Acknowledge receipt of requests

Use Video

• Turn camera on when possible
• Builds connection with team
• Makes communication clearer

Document Decisions

• Follow up meetings with summary
• Record decisions in writing
• Share notes with team

Need Help?

For collaboration tool help, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.