Digital transformation (also called DT or DX) is the cultural, organizational and operational change of an organization, industry or ecosystem through the smart integration of digital technologies, processes and competencies. Transformation occurs in a staged manner across all levels and functions of a company.

While digital transformation was already on the rise, the number of companies integrating technological elements into their workplaces has hugely skyrocketed since the outbreak of the coronavirus. From my perspective, remote teams and digital tools might be the new normal.

As the founder and CEO of a recruitment consulting company that specializes in high-tech, I want to talk about the knowledge and tools you’ll need to prepare your company for digital transformation, a more effective strategy and a smoother transition.

Why pursue digital transformation?

Digital transformation isn’t just about disruption or technology; it’s so much more. Beyond tech tools and industry-leading innovation, digital transformation is an intelligent, people-oriented evolution. The process is meant to revolve around people, value, optimization and adaptation.

Across industries and niches, companies are turning to digital transformation to help them automate their systems, boost efficiency and effectiveness, save money, drive innovation and grow business.

Digital transformation leverages technologies to:

• Create value for various stakeholders.
• Innovate, think and move forward.
• Adapt to changing circumstances, both within and outside of the company.

When you’re ready to explore digital transformation, consider the following strategies that can make the process easier and more impactful:

Strategy 1: Update your business model.

As we’ve seen since the coronavirus outbreak, some industries are quicker to embrace technology than others. If your business model includes only limited technology or doesn’t include technology at all, now is the time to consider making the switch.

Think about how technology might become a part of your processes and practices going forward. You and your executive team should be asking questions such as:

• Where will we implement new tech tools?
• How will digital transformation change our operations?
• How will those tools impact current employees and new hires?
• How will our business need to adjust its essential functions?
• How will digital transformation affect our place in our industry?
• How will it affect our customers?

Adjusting your business model in anticipation of digital transformation is no small feat, but it’s one way to prepare your company for the coming changes.

Strategy 2: Help your team embrace change.

Next, you’ll want to start preparing your team members for digital transformation. It’s common for people to feel resistant to major changes, so expect some pushback as you move forward.

Empower your team, and help them feel confident that they can thrive amid the changes. For your part, don’t act daunted by the coming transitions. Lead your team by example, and embrace change.

Strategy 3: Select tech tools that fit your culture.

Before you adopt new tech tools or automate processes, ensure they fit well within your operations. All too often, tech tools can have a wide range of bells and whistles that actually keep your company from accomplishing its goals.

The tools you choose should offer solutions that streamline your processes for efficiency and effectiveness. Resist “bright, shiny object syndrome” in favor of tools that equip your team to do their work and serve your customers better. Also, check that all tools and platforms fit your company culture.

Strategy 4: Offer learning opportunities.

Some members of your team will likely want to transition into new, tech-centric roles as your company embraces digital transformation. Offer them opportunities, training and resources for expanding their skill set and acquiring new skills.

Provide your team with information on any adjusted roles and job descriptions within your company. Before you publicly post openings for upcoming, tech-centric jobs, notify your team that you anticipate hiring people to fill these positions. This will give your internal employees a chance to qualify for the jobs before you begin hiring from outside the company.

Strategy 5: Consider leveraging tech in your recruiting process.

The coronavirus has changed in-person recruitment and hiring. Many Link Consulting Services clients have switched to only remote hiring for the near future, perhaps longer.

With digital transformation, your company can handle all recruitment and hiring needs remotely if necessary, as well as speed up the process and make it more effective. Below are just a few ways to digitize your recruitment and hiring process:

• Leverage digital document signature platforms to send essential documents to candidates and new hires and receive signatures quickly.
• Use applicant tracking systems and customer relationship management software to create qualified applicant pools, identify the most fitting candidates, and track applicants throughout the interview and assessment process.
• Conduct video interviews using Zoom, Google Hangouts or similar software.
• Ask promising candidates to send a short introduction video. Link Consulting Services has found that sending clients brief videos of each candidate (no more than three minutes) helps them feel connected to the applicants, understand their personalities and motivations better, and speed up first-round interviews. Sometimes these videos even enable the candidate to go straight through to the next round.
• Create a digital onboarding and training experience. Help remote new hires feel connected to their team and the company’s mission to keep them engaged.

As you can see, preparing your company for digital transformation is essential. If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to call in reinforcements. Your company can partner with experts in digital transformation that can help you adopt the changes and hire the specialized talent you need to successfully transform.

But to get a good start on your own and set your organization up for change, follow the five steps outlined above. As a result, you’ll be able to reap the benefits of digital transformation and ensure you and your team have a smooth transition.

This article was originally published on Forbes.