Managing a remote team is not a simple task which can be tricky but at the end manageable. Doing this efficiently is another thing which makes all much more complex.
Today we will focus on the most common errors that can be encountered in managing remote teams.
From experience it is possible to identify some behaviours to achieve, even though remains clear that filling only these cannot be enough: is required to have a holistic approach through a continuous review.
- Planning is everything. Either you don’t have one or you have it and you don’t stick to it, not pursuing a plan is heavily impacting your efficiency. And this is especially valid when dealing with virtual workspaces: defining a set of activities and a timing for them is critical in order to “give a context” to your team. Especially in a remote context, it is important to have a plan to share with others (so that they can prepare themselves before the meeting), and that it is a reference throughout the meeting, so that people always know where to position their work.
- Timing is critical. Working for many companies I’ve learned to compare the different perceptions of “being on time”. In some countries it is normal to allow for flexibility, in some others it is strictly to avoid. So, with some sensitivity based on your cultural heritage, try to stick to the meeting start and end. This is crucial in virtual meetings, particularly because it is common for people to have different commitments, precisely because they are not in the same place, so, once you accomodate the slot, stick to it.
- Keep people active. Meetings, especially those that are virtual (and so when not in the same place) are moments where there’s a clear opportunity to perform more activities and while being connected, do not participate to the discussions. Let people know what’s expected, and keep engagement high so you get the most out of the meeting. This includes also making hard blocks when you see people passive or not participating. And yes, cameras on all the time.
- Tailored content is good content. Don’t match everyone’s needs for the meeting time, you loose not only time but credibility. Adapt content and messages to audience and different expectations.
- Agree and follow up. Whether is virtual or not, after a meeting, be clear about what has been agreed and who is responsible for the actions . And then regularly follow up. Is not only good practice, is critical to maintain the grip on it.
