Virtual Vic

Virtual Vic is a managerial fable about the trials and tribulations of an executive facing the virtual work environment and the technology associated with this environment. Vic struggles to balance the new working environment and the more traditional one. All of this culminates with his struggles to be a successful leader by relying solely on technology and ignoring the human aspects behind true leadership. Vic's heavy reliance on technology as a way to lead fails to get the results he expects. The story helps all of us look at technology as the tool it is meant to be rather than the humanistic hindrance it often becomes. Vic meets three characters who help provide the lessons needed to best lead a blended workforce comprising of a mix of full and part time virtual employees as well as employees who are co-located with Vic. Each character represents a major theme within the book. The themes of Trust (Reliable Reggie), Isolation (Solitary Samantha) and Presence (Being Bob) are about human perceptions that provide a human touch associated with the virtual work environment. Trust, isolation, and presence are the three main human perceptions discussed throughout the book and are the foundation for Virtual Vic. Told in a fable style, Virtual Vic can help leaders, managers and employees recognize signs that could result in a less than ideal work environment. The book is designed for anyone associated with the virtual work environment. The lessons discussed allow for the most productive workforce. The balance and positive attributes of the virtual work environment can only be truly realized when they are looked at through the lens of the virtual employee, the human behind the work