How to lead remote teams effectively?

The work dynamics in the modern workplace has changed significantly. For most businesses, the pandemic was a pivotal moment, one that created a new scenario. Now, working remotely is not a trend suitable just for certain business in specific fields, but a working mode that is popular and cost-effective. However, leading a remote team is not the same as leading a team at the office. 

Do you know how to lead remote teams effectively? At T2W we have an extensive experience in talent management and Human resources, so we are aware of the best techniques to achieve the best results. In this article we’ll take a look at the aspects you need to consider while leading a remote team. 

How to lead a remote team? 

1. Set clear work dynamics 

The first step to manage correctly a remote team is setting clear work dynamics. In this working mode, we can identify some essential aspects. First is to clearly outline the functions and responsibilities each member will have. This is important in case you need to assign specific chores to each person. Setting a defined work dynamics is always necessary, but is especially important in the context of a remote team. 

On the other hand, team meetings will be key for a good remote team. You need to set a specific frequency for these meetings. This mainly depends on the complexity of the tasks and projects the team will have to deal with. The frequency that seems to work best for most professional fields is having weekly meeting. This is when team members will present their progress and possible problems they have found. However, in more dynamic areas such as the ones related to technology development, it’s necessary to have short daily meetings to follow up the internal processes of the project. 

Once the project is over, it’s necessary to discuss the results with all the members. In this stage, giving feedback will be essential for the constant improvement of the remote team you lead. Therefore, you have to schedule one-on-one meetings to analyze each member’s performance in the project. To do it correctly, it’s good to set a specific evaluation criteria for the team and make sure they are familiar with it. 

2. Frequent and clear communication 

In a regular environment, more than 80% of communication between human beings is made non-verbally. Aspects such as the tone of voice and body language are key elements for effective communication. Unfortunately, remote working doesn’t let us use these elements that easily. Therefore, it’s mandatory strengthening communication inside the remote team. 

First, it’s you need to make sure each team member understands is okay to have doubts, ask questions and make comments at any moment. This will help you avoid several communication issues while completing a project. Also, the leader is the one who sets the communication style in any team. In a remote working mode, communication must be clear and frequent, which strengthen team work. 

Here, the way the team leader uses the communication tools will set the type of communication that will prevail in the team. In remote working, is best to opt for short and concise meetings focused only in important issues. This promotes a more agile and less tedious communication style, which is perfect for working remotely. The last thing you need is to leave the team thinking: this meeting could have been just an email”. 

You might like: What is the hybrid work model and why is it so important? 

3. Build team relationships 

In a regular scenario, developing interpersonal relationships between employees is one of the most effective ways to strengthen a team. To achieve this, the regular interactions that usually happen at the office help building team relationships. This is a key factor in any human group. However, in a remote work environment it’s more difficult having those interactions. 

Therefore, part of a remote team management is creating situations that gather all the team outside the work context. To achieve this, you can use remote integration meetings. In these events, group activities and games help people to get to know each other and integrate. Also, occasional meetings at the office allow the group to recognize each other in real life and not just as an image in a screen. 

4. Respect working hours 

Lastly, while leading a remote team, many leaders tend to keep assigning tasks even after the working hours are over. That is a real danger for employee wellness. Showing disregard for the digital disconnection affects employee motivation and morale severely. In the long term, it will reflect negatively in the team’s performance. 

It’s best to refrain from assigning tasks once working hours are over. Likewise, sending work-related emails, making phone calls and sending text messages outside working hours or late at night it’s not a good idea. These habits will help you offer a better balance between personal and professional life, which promotes employee wellness. 

Now you know the main actions you should take to lead a remote team. Make sure to implement them and your team will have the best performance possible! 

At Talent2Win, we strive to align your company’s business objectives with the best Talent Acquisition strategies available. If you want to learn more about the services we offer, do not hesitate to contact us.