Because the job market is globally advancing, it follows that virtual jobs have also increased in number. Virtual teaming has a lot of advantages including the chance to employ a various pool of talent and to leverage multiple experiences and viewpoints. Virtual teaming can face several difficulties that are closely related to logistical, technical and socio-emotional drawbacks which includes time zone differences and contradicting cultural norms, expectations, and communication approach. How can leaders of virtual teams solve these concerns and guarantee that the different team members and stakeholders can work together with ease and efficiency to produce beneficial and advantageous results for everyone involved?
A leader of a virtual team could consider the following:
- Select team members who can overcome the challenges that the job requires.
- There must be an option for the employee to decide whether to avail the chance of any Professional Development or not.
- Ensure that communication is readily accessible.
- A social network is a must.
- Establish a good camaraderie among employees and cultivate relationships with the communities by partnering with non-profit organizations and offering support.
There are a thousand and one ways to manage a remote environment and the success of the team lies on the ability of the leader to maximize the guidance and supervision as well as the capacity to set an open mind and heart to listen, decide, and act on matters that could either make or break the company. eCornell has opened a gateway for every potential leader to maximize these capabilities. The certificate program entitled Leading Remote Teams wraps up the essentials through the following courses;
- Building High-Performing Virtual Teams
- Launching Virtual Team Projects
- Virtual Communication, Constructive Conflict, and Collaboration
- Decision-making and Accountability
- Diversity and Cross-Cultural Teams