What do you do if your remote colleagues are difficult to connect with?

In my experience, building trust within remote teams is essential. Each individual should act as an accountability partner rather than a supervisor. To maintain fluent communication, it's crucial for everyone to be on the same page and share common goals. Establishing team objectives inspires team members to row in the same direction. Once the goals are clear, selecting an online communication channel (such as Slack or Teams) and a project management tool (such as Monday or Notion) that all team members will use is essential. After selecting the right tools, it's crucial to establish how they will be used and schedule regular check-ins. Setting fixed dates for these check-ins promotes accountability and keeps the team aligned.

To truly connect with remote colleagues, it’s important to ensure they feel valued and involved. Establishing clear goals and expectations is just the starting point. I’ve found that regularly celebrating milestones, acknowledging individual contributions, and fostering a sense of shared achievement can reinforce a strong team spirit. Encouraging everyone to contribute to goal-setting and to voice their expectations can also create a more inclusive atmosphere where each member feels integral to the team’s success.

Choosing the right communication tools and channels is crucial for engaging remote colleagues effectively. For instance, I’ve seen that quick, spontaneous video calls can sometimes replace a thread of lengthy emails, saving time and adding a personal touch. It’s about matching the tool to the task but also to the team’s culture. The right tools used in the right way can bring a team closer, no matter how far apart they are geographically.

I’ve noticed that communication across the globe can reflect circadian rhythms - we all tend to be brighter in the mornings and less energetic as the day draws to a close. Therefore we should be conscious of that difference and try to bridge the gap by adjusting our style to a lower pace or a higher velocity - depending on geographical and time differences!

In addition to this set the agenda in advance as to what the discussion points are so that everyone is prepared and meetings finish within the time allowed.

Being respectful and empathetic bridges the gap that remote work can create. I’ve noticed that taking the time for a quick check-in call or a personalized message can make a world of difference. It’s these small gestures that show your colleagues they are heard and valued, which is especially important when we’re not sharing a physical space. This respect and empathy lay the groundwork for a trusting and supportive remote team environment.

Seeking feedback is a tangible way to show remote colleagues you’re invested in mutual growth and team synergy. By regularly asking for their insights, and integrating this feedback into your work, you signal that their perspectives are valuable. This practice can lead to practical improvements in processes and outcomes, and reinforces a culture of open communication and continuous improvement within the team.