Tips in Managing Distributed TeamsBrought by: Servcorp Virtual and Serviced Offices

Managing distributed teams might sound

difficult and different from office-based teams.

If you can get it right, you will find that it might not be the same but it is not

difficult as long as you have good management plan.

Tip #1: Make your expectations clear and realistic

In a distributed team environment, it is

sometimes harder to make your expectations heard and

understood.

Verbal instructions can be misunderstood, emails can be forgotten, and meetings

can be missed.

By making your requirements measurable and clear, your teams will

know exactly what is expected from them.

Tip #2: Use regular and spontaneous communication

Checking in with your team is important, not

only for you but for your team, too.

Try to plan a mixture of scheduled and spontaneous

communication to receive the latest news from your team

members.

Phone calls, instant messaging, and video

conferencing are some of the ways you can keep in touch and get the latest updates.

Tip #3: Help your team to achieve their goals

Managing a team remotely can often result in

mismanagement if you are not careful and focused.

It is essential that you are aware of the processes your

team is using to achieve goals and milestones.

Tip #4: Ensure communication channels are clear and easily accessible

The case is, you do not have the luxury of bumping into

colleagues in the corridor or arranging meetings in the

same time zone.

Communication can be clear and open all the time by using third-party apps such as Skype, Viber, and

the likes.

From office-based to virtual offices, working with several teams from around the world is not impossible

anymore.

Then, these tips might be helpful for you to make

your remote teams operate smoothly and efficiently.