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The Ultimate List Do’s and Don’ts of Virtual Team

 

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How well does your team work together? Do you have any concerns about the idea of globally-distributed teams, or are they an exciting opportunity for innovation and growth? If you’re not sure how to answer these questions, this post is for you! We’ve compiled a list of do’s and don’ts when it comes to managing virtual teams. Read on to see what our experts had to say. 

There are many challenges in managing a global workforce that spans various time zones and it also saved time and money for companies that can’t afford to have all of their employees in one location, but they also come with new challenges that the old office-based model didn’t have. One of these is ensuring that everyone feels like they’re part of a cohesive team when it’s not possible to see or interact with each other on a daily basis.

 

List of Do’s and Don’ts in Leading Virtual Team

 

 DO: Set up a meeting schedule with the team

 

In order to lead a successful virtual team, you need an effective daily meeting schedule.  For this reason, it’s important that all members are on board and present with what is happening in their respective time zones so as not to miss any deadlines or meetings.

The best way for leaders of such groups to establish regularity when making sure everyone has seen instructions beforehand would be utilizing email since it’s always available no matter where they go.

DON’T: Let your virtual communication go to waste

 

Digital communication can be a challenge for leaders of virtual teams. 

I never thought that I would say this, but it’s true: you really do need to ensure your team doesn’t go without necessary input or guidance because something as simple-looking on paper may not actually translate well when put into practice.

DO: Use video conferencing for meetings when possible

 

When leading a virtual team, it’s vital to do video conferencing for meetings when possible. This will allow you and your fellow employees the ability to go in person so that all can benefit from one anothers’ expertise while collaborating remotely or in different time zones.

 

DON’T: Forget to keep in touch on social media outlets

 

Don’t forget to keep in touch with your team using social media outlets. It is important for productivity and communication among all members of a virtual organization

Don’t be left out when leading an online workforce. Make sure you update them about the latest happenings within their work environment, such as new projects or deadlines that have been set by managers on site-based teams.

 

DO: Have regular check-ins with the team members you are managing remotely

 

Virtual teams are not different than physical ones. You should have regular check-ins with the team members to make sure everyone is on track, excited about what they’re working towards, and feeling confident before releasing their product or service for public consumption.

 

DON’T: Criticize them

 

When leading a virtual team, it’s important to remember that criticism will only make them feel worse. Instead of pointing out their flaws or mistakes try talking with them about how they could improve in order for everyone on the team to achieve success.

 

Tools Available for Virtual Communication 

 

1. ZOOM –  Is an online video conferencing service that allows users to pull in up to 50 HD video streams at the same time. 

2. Slack – This team messaging tool brings all types of communication together seamlessly.

3. Google Drive – Google allows users to store files in the cloud, share files, and edit documents, spreadsheets, presentations photos, and audio files.

4. Dropbox – Offering cloud storage and file synchronization, it can house documents, photos, and videos.

5. Join.me – This versatile, easy-to-use program can be loaded onto desktop computers.

6. Face TIme – FaceTime is a video chatting tool for Apple users.

7. SkypeCan be downloaded to smartphones, computers, or even on Smart TV. Free HD video calls can be made and broadcast to groups of up to 25 individuals; Skype can also be used for group chats.

8. WebEx – The free version allows users to meet and work with two other people; the premium version offers tiered platforms ranging from $24 per month for up to 8 people to $69 per month for up to 100 people.

9. GroupeMe –  GroupMe is a free mobile messaging app that planners can use to coordinate private chats among coworkers and It works on all device platforms.

10. Freeconferencecall – This aptly-named tool provides free online teleconferencing for up to 25 people. Calls can be recorded, shared, or saved to be heard later on-demand.