Course Content
1. Overview of Online Collaboration
2. Online Collaboration tools for women entrepreneurs
Online Collaboration tools: Gmail
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2.1
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2.2
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2.3
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2.4
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2.5
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2.6
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2.7
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2.8
3. Online Collaboration Tools: Google Calendar
4. Netiquette for effective Online Collaboration
5. Conclusions
Through this module we have gained a clear understanding of online collaboration, the two main types (synchronous & asynchronous, its advantages for entrepreneurs and business owners as well as the limitations it can impose. In addition, this module also presented the different categories of online collaboration tools that women entrepreneurs can take advantage of to brainstorm, share files, organize tasks and communicate virtually. The module suggests specific tools and provides step by step guides and videos for implementation. After covering the use of online collaboration tools/software, the last topic of the module focuses on the importance of netiquette and includes tips on how to communicate and collaborate effectively online. To sum up, in today’s digital era, online collaboration is extremely important and beneficial especially for entrepreneurs and small business that want to expand their companies. Make sure to take advantage of the guides and tips in this module and make use of the right online collaboration tools for your business.
4.2 Netiquette tips
– Always maintain a friendly and respectful tone in written messages. Keep in mind that your tone can be easily misunderstood. Always assume good intentions and ask questions for clarity.
-NEVER USE CAPITALS LIKE THIS as in written online language this can be viewed as shouting.
-While you are collaborating online try to be even more polite than you would be in person. It’s quite easy for misunderstandings to develop online because you aren’t able to use tone of voice (audio) or facial expression (video).
– Be cautious when using humor or sarcasm. Take into consideration intercultural sensitivity.
-Make sure you keep any online discussions or exchanges confidential.
-Reread your written text before posting or emailing and check for grammar and spelling mistakes.
-Wait 24 hours before responding to a provocative message or post. Try and give the person who wrote it the benefit of the doubt and respond as positively as possible.
-When you attend an online meeting make sure that you are in a quiet place with no distractions or noise. Also make sure to mute yourself when you are not speaking in order to reduce background noise.
-Make sure you raise your virtual hand when you want to speak and make use of the chat if you have questions or want to provide feedback.
-Join online meetings 5 minutes earlier to ensure you have access and resolve any technical issues.
-Be careful on how you use emojis. Read this article for more guidance: The Business Etiquette Guide To Emojis