Managing Virtual Teams: 3 Essential Strategies for Success - Part 2

In our previous article we started to explore the strategies to effectively manage a virtual team, here are the final 3 strategies. 

4. Appreciate The Challenges

Like any team, a virtual team will encounter challenges, and these can be magnified by the 'virtual' nature of their work. While it might be tempting to overlook these issues due to pressing business priorities, doing so can be risky.

Whatever problems your team is facing, it’s crucial to acknowledge them, discuss them openly, and find ways to address them.

One common challenge is 'misunderstandings,' which often arise when team members rely on email, instant messaging, or other written communication. In these mediums, it’s easy for someone to misinterpret a message or take it personally when the sender may have meant something entirely different.

Regularly ask your team members about the challenges they face, and coach them to explore solutions. Encourage them to use their insights into the team’s dynamics to come up with strategies to overcome obstacles.

For example, if a team member is unable to attend a brainstorming session due to time zone differences, ask them how they could contribute their ideas using technology, such as submitting input ahead of time.

5. Build Relationships and Trust

Working in different offices, time zones, or from home presents challenges for team bonding. However, it’s essential to create opportunities for informal online or in-person gatherings to build trust.

If possible, arrange for your team to meet in person at least once, preferably twice a year. Although this can be costly and time-consuming, these face-to-face interactions help foster and strengthen relationships, which in turn, build trust.

Encourage your team to continue building on these relationships virtually. Social networking tools or ‘private team groups’ can be great ways for team members to share insights into their work, social lives, personalities, and interests — similar to what happens naturally in an office setting.

Remember: Let your team know that spending time on relationship-building is valuable (within reason) and contributes to team cohesion.

It’s also worth noting that different cultures have varying views on sharing personal information. If you’re managing an international team, take the time to understand these cultural differences and ensure everyone respects them.

6. Support and Motivate

Whether your team is in one office or spread across the globe, they need your guidance, direction, and support.

Creating a positive team culture is just as important in a virtual environment as it is in a physical office. Maintain an "open-door policy" — ensure that team members know how to reach you for the support they need.

Communication is key: Whichever way you communicate with your team, remember to provide regular, specific feedback. Acknowledge when they are doing well, and offer developmental feedback when improvements are needed.

Manage expectations: As with any team, there will be aspects of virtual working that can’t be changed. It’s important to manage these expectations and ensure that frustrations aren’t taken out on colleagues. Encourage your team to seek help when needed, whether from colleagues or yourself. A buddy or mentoring system can be an effective way to foster collaboration and cross-cultural learning.

In conclusion, virtual team working continues to grow in popularity and provides numerous advantages to organisations and employees alike. While it can present challenges for managers, there are plenty of resources available to support you in managing your virtual team. By using these 3 strategies, along with the 3 covered in part 1, you and your team can unlock the full benefits of virtual collaboration.

Many thanks,

Alex & The Excel Team

P.S. If you would like to discuss any of your other learning & development challenges, book in your discovery call.

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