Imagine the dismay when business team dynamics break down during pivotal crunch-time. Now add time zone and geographical differences further exacerbating problems with meeting deadlines. This is the headache of remote employees.

More than 3.9 million American workers are working half their time remotely. This has been a long time coming since the proliferation of the Internet. Yet, we seem to have lost camaraderie where we gained flexibility.

Coordinating projects with one or two remote workers isn’t difficult. It’s when you expand to a team of several or more where things start falling apart.

This article shares nine tips to get your remote workers feeling connected–and an actual part of the team.

Bridging the Gap: Creating Team Cohesion with Remote Workers and Freelancers

Project management tools keep tasks aligned and workers communicating. Video conferencing creates bonding moments. Social media groups give a voice to remote employees…

…but these tools need your input to make them welcoming and engaging.

Here’s how it’s done.

1. Make a Group on Social

Bridge the gap with your remote employees by creating a Facebook group. The group serves as a hub for social activity. But, is handy for quick Q&A sessions if these individuals have hang-ups.

The group could find its way on other platforms, too, like:

• Twitter — Using @handles
• Private Forums — Installed on a project site
• LinkedIn — Through its group features

The social platform sets a relaxed tone versus collab tools. This will spur casual discussions, helping others get to know another better. Plus, it’s a fantastic tool for onboarding new hires as participants can chime in and welcome them!

2. Use Collaboration Tools

Add Slack to your growing list of free business tools. This is the go-to platform for collaboration with its desktop and app environments. You can use the platform for dedicated chat groups for remote workers.

Don’t want Slack? Consider Discord instead, as it provides similar features. Or, use old-fashioned IRC chat for easy discussions and file sharing.

Housing discussion in one platform removes the back-and-forth from email. The collab tools use plug-ins, removing the need to log in to several platforms to complete tasks. Try dividing the platforms into separate projects to keep everything aligned on on-track.

3. Have Regular Calls

Projects, like refreshing your brand or launching a project, rely on communication. Team members need a platform to discuss projects and tasks. Voice over IP systems and services is how your team gets it done.

VoIP is available through PBX hardware and mobile apps. Giving employees access to these features removes trouble phoning in with their devices.

A VoIP investment handles regular conference calls without hang-ups. The service finds its way in customer support roles, too. Plus, this gives them an easy platform to call and chat about projects if they wish to beyond normal hours.

4. Give Everyone a “Play” Budget

You hired remote employees for their skills and flexibility. Individuals come from many backgrounds, with lots of unique skills you could tap. Encourage remote employees to discover and pitch new ideas by giving them a budget.

Turn remote workers into project managers (on a small-scale) — budget for:

• Project tools
• Learning materials
• Food and drink

Your business saves a great deal of money by employing remote workers. Use the savings for “play” budgets they can use to improve themselves. This reinvestment could prove beneficial to projects.

The budget spurs teamwork as they overcome novelty and learning curve. They’ll bond as they discover and discuss tool or service’s implementation!

5. Host a Meetup

Save the date and make it a point to do an annual meetup of remote employees.

There are a few ways to do these meetups:

• Fly them in for the weekend, doing an office tour and dinner
• Book them for the business conference and paying for travel
• Livecast meetups for those who cannot attend

Setting a face to fellow remote coworkers builds relationships. Remote workers head home feeling they’re part of a group — now knowing others better. This could start non-work communication, furthering friendships and helpfulness.

6. Align Goals Beyond the Work

We’re at the cusp of the gig economy, where individuals hop project to project on a weekly basis. Retaining long-term remote workers pose a challenge as businesses entertain the opportunity. One way to keep them onboard is through shared goals and prosperity in the workforce.

Prosperity could include:

• Income sharing or stock options
• 1099 to full-time, salaried positions
• Influence on future projects

The goals should incorporate the remote team so they feel part of the greater group — not outcasts. Look for gaps and fill them with remote employees if you want to create a greater sense of cohesion.

7. Create Fun Side Projects

Fun side projects can replace the “play” budget mentioned above. This lets remote employees band together on something they find interesting. The work could create a new revenue stream for the business, too!

These projects let employees try new ideas without repercussions. Think of it as a way to let employees unwind after spending most of their day on heavy tasks.

8. Award Achievement with Incentives

Lead remote workers with awesome incentives like:

• Pay boosts if they reach performance goals
• Extra vacation time and better flex hours
• Their choice on what project they’d like to join

The incentive creates a twinge of playful competition. Many thrive on the competition but use it to form bonds, too. Others may feel more compelled to put in extra effort to get things done.

9. Stick to a Cut-off Time

Remote work compels many individuals to continue projects well-beyond their allotted times. This bleeds into personal time, straining relationships and nurturing burnout. Workers in this situation perform sub-standard.

Respect your remote workers set schedule and time:

• Have on/off days
• Don’t request tasks during off-hours
• Know they may have other clients

Their “always on” connection is wonderful but everyone needs downtime. Don’t expect an instant response when you know they’re away. Some of your remote team may have other business or personal projects they need to do, too!

Feeling Connected in the Workspace of the Future

Industry embrace of remote employees continues year-over-year. Remote connections provide the workplace of the future. Though, even with its comforts, we’ll see growing pains with feeling connected.

Today’s owners and project managers should adopt and support this sweeping change. Use this post’s info as you tap remote work whether it’s logo creation to marketing and promotions. Bridge the gap!

If you want to create some of your own package designs, investing in packaging design software can make things easier. Yet if you’ve never bought such software before, it can be difficult to know which option is best.

With that in mind, there are certain rules you can use to protect you from making rookie mistakes.

Keep reading to learn how you can pick the right package design software for your needs. Once you’re done, you’ll know how to find a design suite that’ll help you design professional package designs, even if you’re not a master designer.

Let’s begin!

How Much Are You Able to Spend?

It’s important you decide how much you can afford to pay for the package design software. This’ll help you narrow down your search so you don’t waste any time looking at software you’re not able to afford.

Some companies will provide a monthly payment option. This means you can just pay a small amount monthly, without having to fork out a lot up front. But if you go with this option, keep in mind that you’ll lose access if you stop paying.

Some companies will provide special rates if you’re a student. The amount you’ll be able to save will depend on the company in question. But it’s worth reaching out and asking them if they offer a discount for students and how you can enjoy this discount.

Work With Different Design Offerings

Each person has a different working style. The different package design software options on offer reflect this. You thus want to consider working with an option that best suits you. The initial software you download, might not be the best one for you.

Because of this, you should try to download a wide range of options and test them out over the period of one month. It’s worth noting that a lot of companies offer a free trial period that’ll help you develop a better understanding of the software. During this period, you can decide whether the software is right for you or not.

Read Software Reviews

Reviews can help make things easier as they’ll provide you with some expert perspective on what is best for you.

A good review should compare a wide range of offerings. It should also let you know what’s good and bad about a specific software suite. There should also be a mention of price.

Ideally, you should look for reviews that have some screenshots. Screenshots of the software allow you to see what the software looks like in action. This can help you appreciate the user experience provided by a specific software suite. If you’d like to see an example of such a review, you can read more here.

Should You Take Some Courses?

It’s worth noting that some package design suites can be quite complicated. If you have little to no experience with design, you’ll probably struggle to grasp how these software suites work. Following this, you might want to invest in some courses, to help you learn how such suites work.

There are many educational websites that’ll provide you with a selection of courses you can buy, to help you learn more about package design. These courses will teach you how to use specific software suites. But they’ll also teach you about certain graphic design rules you need to stick to, if you want to end up with good package designs.

There’s also the option of watching YouTube videos. But these videos might not have as good a production value. They might also not be as thorough as paid courses.

Try to Redesign Existing Examples

If you want to improve your skills, one thing you can do is work with existing package designs. There are two approaches you can use here. One thing you can do is try to recreate existing package designs in your chosen software suite. This can help you figure out how the software works.

Once you have this basic knowledge, you can then try to completely redesign the package in question. This can give you the chance to flex your design muscles and understand what separates a good package design from a bad.

Are You Going to Need a Printer?

If you’re getting into the package design game, you may want to produce some physical examples of your designs. To do this, you’ll need to invest in a printer.

You’ll probably want to invest in a high-end printer as that’ll ensure that your designs look good when they’re printed. High-end printers, typically allow you to print designs that closely resemble the designs you’ve developed on a computer.

If you’re going to have package design clients, you’ll likely need to print out some designs you can show your clients. If you have a high-end printer, you can ensure that the ‘examples’ look good enough to impress your clients.

The size of the printer is another thing you need to put some thought into. If you’re working with a wide range of product categories, you may need to invest in a printer that’s fairly large. This is so that your printing abilities aren’t overly restricted. For instance, you might need a printer that’s capable of dealing with A3 or even A2 sizes.

One of the biggest costs you’re going to face when using a printer is that of the ink. You might be able to get a discount if you buy your ink in bulk. Some of the newer printers are also more efficient in relation to their ink usage. Thus buying a new printer could help lower ink costs.

Packaging Design Software – Do You Know How to Pick the Right Option for You?

If you want to do any kind of package design, you’ll need the help of some packaging design software. But deciding on the right option isn’t easy.

In this post, we’ve explored how you can select the right package design software for your needs. It’s important you think about how much you can afford to pay. You also should spend some time reading the various reviews that are on offer.

Going through this process can seem like a slog. But once you find the right package design suite, you’ll be able to design awesome packages that’ll impress anyone you show them to.

Need some branding advice? Check out these 9 tips that’ll help you build your brand.

Fostering fun competitions at work enlivens the spirit of the workplace. It creates an environment where employees have fun and where production is boosted.

To add to the merriment, employers can easily create a DIY trophy at home that’s uniquely outfitted for their business and the contest.

And, no, it won’t look shoddy in the least. At least, not with our tips.

Here, we’ll show you six methods to create the most unique and fun trophies for the workplace from the comfort of your home.

Why Bother?

Friendly contests can increase productivity and feelings of worth in businesses. Supervisors should aim for team contests to avoid any negative feelings that may ensue from competition among individuals. Doing so promotes cooperation and a team spirit, two factors that are integral to a business’s success.

However, silly contests created to instill humor not only make employers more approachable, but they also diffuse any built-up stress from the real stuff. It puts workers at ease and lets them know that laughter needn’t be reserved for their time at home.

Finally, the very act of creating a trophy says more than you can imagine. You took the time to make something for an employee. This demonstrates how much you value them.

Even if you choose to have a trophy custom made through another business, such as Trophies Plus Medals or other popular manufacturers, employees will still feel appreciated.

A Quick Word About Logos

Having your logo taken out into the world on a trophy is an excellent form of marketing. It’s a definite topic for conversation as soon as someone from beyond the company sees it sitting on a mantel or desk.

For DIY projects, consider having a company print your logo on bumper-sticker paper or other material. Not only will you have a quality look and easy application, but the price per sheet is extremely reasonable.

You can also have your logo engraved if you choose to go all-out; after all, it’s an excellent way to ensure it will remain on the trophy forever.

Otherwise, consider using your personal printer to print the logo on sticky matte paper. You’ll be needing it to create every trophy.

Six Ways to Create a DIY Trophy

These methods are convenient for a number of reasons, but mostly because your time is valuable as a manager. Therefore, we’ve selected some of the easiest and quickest ways to create a trophy–without sacrificing its appearance.

1. Disposable Cups and Plates

Chances are you have some plastic cups and plates in the kitchen cupboard somewhere. Rustle them up to create an easy and inexpensive company trophy.

What you’ll need:

• Disposable cups and plates
• Hot glue gun
• Metallic spray paint
• Various toys or items

Create a pedestal or the body of your trophy by placing the cups and plates together however you like. Use your hot glue gun to keep them firmly in place.

Next, place the item you want to be on top and glue it down. Visit your local dollar store for this or take a stroll down the dollar aisle. You’ll be surprised at how many toys you can use as toppers.

Once your soon-to-be trophy dries, take it outside for some spray painting. Metallic colors and paint/primer combinations are the best and easiest way to give the product a finished, authentic look.

Slap on your logo and consider it a job well done.

2. Kitchenware

If you’d like to be super authentic, you can always purchase real glassware to use as a trophy, but be sure to notify your winners!

Use the same method as above, but be sure to substitute the glue and spray paint for glass-appropriate adhesive and paint.

3. Cans and Candlesticks

Hit up your local Goodwill or thrift store for some likely-looking candlesticks, and save those tin cans.

What you’ll need:

• Candlestick
• Tin can
• Glue gun
• E-6000 glue
• Primer
• Metallic spray paint

Glue the tin can to the candlestick. If you have any other trinkets you would like to add to the trophy, glue them on.

Apply primer to the trophy, then the spray paint. Add on your label and your trophy is finished. Simple and easy.

4. Wooden Objects

Find any wooden objects that could be used for a trophy’s base. Watch them transform.

What you’ll need:

• Wooden object, preferably rectangular
• Stick-on felt
• Wood glue
• Spray lacquer
• Epoxy
• Masking tape
• Any items for the top
• Stickers or adhesive nameplates

Apply spray lacquer to the wood if you would like to give it a glossy finish. Let it dry.

Using the base of the wooden stand, cut a piece of felt to apply to the bottom of the stand.

Saw the top of the wooden stand to bare wood, then mask off the rest of the wood. Spray the lacquer onto the top.

After it dries, add whatever item you desire to the top and set it with epoxy glue. Add your logo and any other nameplates you would like, and you’ll have a beautiful trophy.

5. Plastic Bottles

Do you like recycling? If so, you may be surprised to learn you can turn those old plastic bottles into a killer trophy.

What you’ll need:

• A plastic bottle
• A nail
• Pipe cleaners
• Low-temperature glue gun
• Spray paint
• Scissors
• Matboard

Cut the bottom of the plastic bottle off. Using a nail, insert two holes near the cut portion of the larger piece. Twist your pipe cleaners to look like the handles of the trophy. Have one portion twisted to insert into the hole, which will keep the handles in place.

Add both handles.

Cut out a circular piece of matboard to fit the original bottom of the plastic bottle. Adhere it to the opening of the piece. After it dries, glue the curved end of the original bottom to the mouth to create a base. Apply spray paint and any labels.

Recycling and rewarding; that’s what business is all about.

6. Plaques

When we think of “trophies,” we forget about the fancy plaques that are handed out for many awards. However, these are a type of trophy, too, and they’re a classy way to get your logo out there.

What you’ll need:

• Flat or beveled finished wood
• Sponge brush
• A photo and your logo
• Mod Podge

Print off the image you would like to be on the plaque. Apply Mod Podge to the back of the print-off and center it on the wood.

After it dries, apply the Mod Podge to the top of the entire thing, including your image. It will secure the photo in place.

Create Your Logo and Images

Not only is a DIY trophy fun to make, but these six methods are easy ways to show your employees you care.

If you’re ready to transform your logo or take things up a notch for your trophies, we’re here to help. Use our online logo maker to add some pizazz to your logo or dream up new ideas.

After all, what’s work without a little fun?

Designing a logo isn’t exactly rocket science, but it doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Even the most experienced graphic designers have trouble coming up with the right symbol to represent an entire company.

A logo has to be original, bold, and easy to memorize.

Luckily, there are many tricks and tools available to make logo design easier. Whether you’re a professional visual artist or an entrepreneur trying to build a business from scratch, you should start your creative process with standard graphic design rules. This builds a strong foundation for the final logo design to be something incredible.

Here are the key principles you need to know to guide your logo-making process.

1. Start with the Basics

Every creative project begins with brainstorming. When building a logo, the first stage has nothing to do with an online logo maker or software program. The final digital design begins on paper.

Get a plain sheet of paper out and sketch ideas. Write down the words you want to be associated with your brand and let these offer some guidance for whatever you draw.

You can use symbols that represent your services and products, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box, too. Maybe the final logo has nothing to do with what you offer, but what you want to stand for or where your company is based.

The more personal you can get, the better. But, it all begins with what you put on paper then develop further with the help of other graphic design rules.

2. Find the Perfect Font

Once you have a foundation established for your logo, play with the font.

This goes for logos that are just one or two words, as well as logos that are mostly symbols. Logos made to spell out company names or values need to be legible and standout among competitors. Logos that are just symbols – like a classic swoosh or a set of golden arches – will sometimes be accompanied by the company names (i.e. – Nike and McDonald’s).

Whatever your final design looks like, make sure you have the perfect font to match.

3. Play with Colors and Shapes

As you’re deciding on the font you want for your logo, try out different shapes and colors, too. These two graphic design rules are interchangeable in the design process.

Sometimes the shapes come first in order to set a foundation, and then the typeface is chosen to pair certain lines and curves. Sometimes, the font comes first and helps determine the other shapes in the logo. Still, the main objective is to create a design that combines every detail in a seamless, stunning fashion.

This isn’t just about turning heads, either. It’s about making consumers and competitors alike feel something. The colors and shapes you include in the final design will have a major effect on the values and emotions associated with the logo.

4. Keep Everything Clean

Deciding on fonts, colors, and shapes is often the longest part of the logo-making process. You can be an expert on all the graphic design rules in the world, but you still have to get everything just right. One way to ensure the logo is coming together well is to keep everything clean.

What does “clean” mean, though?

It means your gradients should blend well and each line should be sharp and significant. It means the spacing between each letter should be thought out and there should be one guiding principle that is clear to recognize. A clean logo is one that is bold and timeless but doesn’t try too hard.

5. Make Sure the Logo Can Scale

Another variation of a “clean logo design” is a design that can scale.

To be able to scale means the logo will fit well anywhere you put it. The final edit should be able to go on your website as well as your social media posts. It will sometimes need to be blown up for billboards and promotional posters, then used as a smaller version for business cards and company apparel.

Every time, though, the logo should be consistent. Of all the graphic design rules you use, this is arguably the most important. The last thing you want to do is create a logo that looks stunning online, then blurred or difficult to understand when printed.

Keep this from happening by saving the final edit in high-resolution. If you can save it as a vector, even better. Vectors are pretty much impossible to make blurry or confusing; they scale perfectly for car wraps and business signs as well as for pens and stamps.

6. Always Think About the Brand

Last but not least, always keep your brand at the front of your mind.

Many new business owners mistake a logo as the brand itself. This is a costly error; a brand is so much more! Branding refers to everything from your marketing tools to the quality of service provided in addition to your logo.

In short, the brand of a business is everything users associate with the company. The logo is often what makes these feelings and experiences come to mind as users notice it on various mediums. When a person sees your logo on their screen, on a street sign, or walking past someone using your product, what do you want them to think?

That should be what guides your design process from start to finish. Consumers interact with a wide range of companies day in and day out. The right logo can be what makes them stop and feel something, which begins to create a dialogue with current and potential users alike.

Using Graphic Design Rules for Beautiful Logo Design

Ready to see what the power of great design can do? Wonderful – stick to the graphic design rules mentioned above and you’re sure to create a logo that’s worth showing off.

This may take a few hours or a few days. You may know in your gut the final design looks perfect, or you may need to ask for insights and further ideas from business partners. Either way, the process will result in a beautiful logo.

For more advice to help you every step of the way, check out some more of our blog posts today.