There is a misconception that remote work is a temporary solution. However, as of late 2022, remote work strategies are more widespread and effective than ever. The confinement and limitations imposed on specific productive sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic forced many companies to discover how to manage virtual teams.
We have learned that teams that work remotely or use hybrid formulas have several advantages, such as improved productivity, reduced costs, and a happier workforce. Now, have you internalized how to manage teams virtually?
Remote work allows us to have a more flexible schedule and develop in other areas, but it is essential to be aware of the challenges. The main challenge with running a virtual team is proper management. Virtual teams are more prone to getting mismanaged, but when this is appropriately handled, remote work teams can positively impact organizational performance.
How to manage virtual teams in the new business dynamics?
Organization of Tasks and Teams
Managing virtual teams is challenging, and planning any work for this group can sometimes be difficult. Unlike a traditional team that works physically in the same office, you often communicate through virtual meetings.
So, it becomes crucial for virtual team managers to plan the teamwork to ensure smooth operation. Software programs specially designed for companies help team leaders to know precisely the human resources available in the company and the functions assigned to each employee. A reliable and updated control panel also makes it easier for the leader of each team to have a complete vision of their human resources.
While it’s important to know an employee’s capabilities and job satisfaction at your company, you should also build a schedule that is reasonable and has task reviews built into it. This guarantees that all employees can fulfill their obligations autonomously and with the relevant tools.
Better Communication Platform for Team Members
Another important way of managing virtual employees is ensuring that all parties communicate effectively to make decisions and resolve any issues as quickly as possible. In the execution phase, leadership is more relevant than ever. When running a virtual team, you’ll need to be proactive in monitoring your team members and ensuring daily tasks are completed. Failure to do this increases the chances of missing deadlines and reduced productivity.
To solve this problem, it is essential to have a specific communication platform to breach the gap. Software programs like a simple HR portal should be easy to use and intuitive. Job surveys should also be done on these platforms to understand how employees feel about their work and concerns. This resource provides valuable insight into your team’s satisfaction level.
Performance Evaluation In Virtual Teams
When managing virtual teams, an end-of-project review should extend beyond ensuring team members are ready to kick off the next project. It should include assessing how well (or poorly) the team has handled the project. This information can be used to improve the outcome of future projects and drive employee development.
Mistakes to Avoid in Managing Virtual Teams
As in the case of conducting an orchestra, managing virtual teams involves adapting to each person’s differences and integrating all of them to yield more productivity.
- Consider Different Profiles And Cultures
Time differences, cultural differences, and language barriers can become obstacles to project completion. Team managers should identify these peculiarities and manage as appropriate when this is done correctly, the potential for success increases.
- Absence of Communication
Communication can be challenging in this type of work environment, affecting the quality of decision-making within the organization. To avoid this, managers must ensure that teams learn to communicate clearly and frequently with each other.
Regular team meetings and updates foster collaboration and ensure that team members are on the same page, which is crucial to success in achieving goals.
- Not Setting Clear Goals
It is essential to ensure precise alignment between goals and performance. Setting daily/weekly goals helps to keep team members in check. At the end of the day or week, one-on-one or team meetings should be held to provide feedback about the tasks. In addition, managers must create a space to share ideas and address any difficulties that may arise during the work week.
- Inability to Manage Conflict
Conflict is inevitable in any workplace, especially a virtual one. Managers must work with their teams to manage this conflict before it becomes a problem.
Virtual conflict management is essential for team cohesion, morale, and productivity and for resolving conflicts as quickly as possible.
