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.

Be Organized

1. Organization – Make a checklist.  Start your day by looking at the list of tasks you need to accomplish.  Unfortunately, we can't keep everything in our head and getting the list on paper,  or using an online organizer will increase your productivity.

2. Limit distractions – You may need to block facebook and other distracting websites.  Use headphones to tune out nearby conversations.  We actually don't multitask, our brains switch between tasks frequently.  We are not as productive when we switch tasks, as when we are focused one thing at a time. 

3. Get rid of Easy Tasks – Take some time to get the easy and simple tasks checked off your list.  If it will take less than 5 minutes to complete, just do it right away and get it done.

4. Prioritize – Always know your deadlines and what needs to be done when.  Be mindful of sequencing and how your tasks impact other people.  You may need to accomplish some things earlier because it is needed by another team member.

5. Use In-person conversation when possible – Problems can be solved much faster when you are working together, without a lag created through email.  Additionally, it's easy to misinterpret things via email, but when talking in person, questions can be asked and answers clarified to be sure everyone is working together.

6. Take breaks – Go to lunch!  When you let your brain relax, you will be more productive when you return to the project.  Stress reduction will give you better insight to the problems and allow you to get more accomplished.

7. Routine – We love patterns, create one that works best for you.  Some people do best when they accomplish their hardest tasks first thing in the morning.  Others will work better if they write emails first.  Find out what is best for you and follow it whenever possible.

Pink - Try

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