Virtual teams are becoming more prevalent. The openness to virtual offices means employers must learn to adapt to remote teams. Adaptation must include more than adopting a uniform Zoom virtual office background.
If an employer wants to make the most of their remote team, they must make concessions. A virtual environment demands more flexibility. If a company is to succeed with virtual teams, it must adopt several techniques to ensure the best from its employees and managers.
1. Use Technology To Overcome Geographic Boundaries
Technology is essential to remote work. The tech includes computers, cell phones, Bluetooth, etc. It also involves knowing and adhering to Zoom background requirements.
With technology, a company can overcome geographic boundaries. It is now possible for an employee to work in a separate state, city, or region from their employer.
The elimination of geographic boundaries opens the recruitment pool. An employer can now find the best talent regardless of location.
2. Connect on a Personal Level With Each Team Member
Virtual teams present many advantages for employers and employees but also some notable challenges, including communication and team building. It is easier for team members to sit in the background, become withdrawn from company culture, and feel lonely and unsupported.
A custom Zoom background template will not resolve communication and loneliness issues. A manager must commit to connecting with each team member personally. They can connect via regular Zoom meetings or phone calls. Some companies require teams to meet in person at least once per month. While remote work is a viable option, employers cannot forget the importance of connection.
3. Hold Regular Meetings
A team that meets often is likely more effective than those that do not. Regular meetings allow managers to receive frequent project updates. They also allow team members the opportunity to share problems or solutions.
Routine meetings are also opportunities to reconnect. A team that can relate to each other on a personal level often works well together.
4. Assign Group Tasks
Part of developing a strong and supportive team is ensuring everyone works well together. Assigning group tasks is the best way to develop interpersonal skills among a team.
You want to take opportunities to pair members with others they rarely work with. Assign tasks that suit their skills. The tasks can be a presentation, research for an upcoming project, or other things.
When team members work together, they develop a relationship. It is necessary to note that not all professional relationships turn into friendships, but that is not what’s important here. The important thing is knowing your entire team can work effectively alone or together.
5. Focus on Team Building
Besides assigning group work, you might practice team-building exercises. Team building is about your team learning the strengths and weaknesses of each member. The more a team understands itself, the better it can perform required tasks.
It is often impossible to build a team where every member is equally capable. Some people will be better at administrative tasks than others or problem-solving than others. All team members are valuable, and team-building exercises help you see where individual value lies.
Getting the most out of your remote team is only possible when you know your team. Contact a remote management specialist for more information about team building and planning.