Understanding and Valuing People

"Sometimes it snows at late as May, but Summer always comes eventually."

Virtual Challenges

Let’s be honest, working with a group of people is challenging.  Working with a group of people living in different time zones, from different cultures, and sometimes different languages can be more than challenging.  It can be downright impossible.  But, with careful planning and management and preparation, these obstacles can be overcome.

1.  Communication:  The biggest problem with virtual teams is making sure that communication stays open and information is being shared among all of the members.  Careful planning on the part of the manager will ensure that people are getting the information they need when they need it.

2.  Relationships:  Another difficulty is making sure the team relationships stay strong.  When dealing with more text communication, it is easier to misinterpret someone or stereotype them.  If you were speaking face to face, you could read their emotions and intentions with visual and auditory cues.  But, when you are relying on text, it is easy for team members to assume many things that may be untrue and cause conflict in the group.

3.  Performance:  The third obstacle in virtual teams is inspiring the team to preform and meet deadlines.  When you are face to face, it is easier to motivate your team and be sure that all of the pieces are coming together at the right times.  When your team is virtual you will have to work hard to maintain the team’s energy and inspire everyone to keep moving toward the goal.