Managing remote teams is a challenge every manager will have to face in the future. We present some tips on managing virtual teams effectively.
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Working from home is a norm now. Thanks to the advancement in technology, a rising number of employees are now able to avail a work-from-home option. While this helps the organization save costs and the employee to save time, the manager may it difficult to perform his/her duties well due to various reasons.
Just like every other long distance relationship, managers of virtual teams need to go the extra distance. Here are some tips on getting the most out of your remote working team members:
1) Carry out frequent, informal check-ins
Keep channels of communication open and make it a habit to check in daily / weekly with your team members in order to ensure everything is running on track. Appoint fixed times for these conversations and do maintain a healthy mix of team and one-on-one meetings.
2) Define goals and metrics clearly
Establish clear goals and metrics to provide a sense of direction for the team. Set the goals and metrics after agreed upon by everyone. Draw up a plan, timeline and milestones to allow your team to envision their goals.
3) Show appreciation
Managers may tend to miss out on showing adequate appreciation when dealing with virtual team members. Positive reinforcement such as a few words of praise or a small reward can work wonders for team spirit and individual motivation levels.
4) Provide timely feedback
In our earlier articles, we have already underscored the importance of giving specific and timely feedback. This also holds true for remote teams. Do make it a point to include at least one session of audio / video calls while giving feedback instead of restricting oneself to emails / Instant Messaging Services.
5) Try to put a face to the names
If all members of the team are based in the same location, make it a point to schedule an informal gathering once a while. This will allow team members to get to know each other outside of the work setting. It will facilitate greater trust and communication among team members. If members are based in different cities/countries, make it a point to encourage team members to meet each other when in each other's work location.
There are many more things a manager can do to run a virtual team effectively but these 5 tips are nonetheless a good place to start. If you do try these out with your teams, let us know your experience by leaving a comment below.
Questions for Reflection
Do managers require special skill sets to manage remote teams?
How differently would you give feedback to a virtual team member?
