The global pandemic has resulted in a widespread shift toward remote employment. Thus, it is more vital to utilize remote teams. However, working from home can be challenging, and remote teams need to have strong habits to stay resilient and productive. In this article, we will examine some of the most important habits of resilient remote teams.
1. Efficient exchange of information
To ensure that all members of a distributed team, located in different locations, interact efficiently and often, they must pay attention to the following components of communication. Successful remote teams should prioritize the following.
Clear expectations
Teams working remotely should create rules regarding how and when members should communicate. This could involve:
- Utilizing appropriate communication tools for various scenarios;
- Establishing expectations regarding response times;
- Defining guidelines for tone and professionalism.
Regular check-ins
Remote teams should schedule regular check-ins, whether it’s a weekly team meeting or daily stand-ups. These check-ins offer team members a chance to:
- Catch up on progress;
- Discuss challenges;
- Stay aligned around goals.
Use of technology
If they want to succeed, distributed teams must take advantage of modern means of communication. Possible examples of this are the following:
- Video conferencing tools;
- Chat apps;
- Project management software;
- Other tools that enable team members to communicate effectively.
Transparency
Teams working remotely should make open communication a priority, sharing information and updates with the team as appropriate. Having a common goal can bring people closer together and increase trust.
2. Trust and Autonomy
Trust in one another’s abilities and reliability on the job, as well as the freedom to make decisions and own one’s own work, are essential qualities in a successful team. Here are some ways remote teams can build trust and autonomy:
- Clear roles and responsibilities: It’s crucial for such teams to establish defined roles and responsibilities so that everyone knows their place and how they may best contribute to the group’s success;
- Support and resources: Members of dispersed teams should have access to all the resources and assistance they need to accomplish their responsibilities effectively. This could encompass access to training and development opportunities and equipment and resources that facilitate teamwork and cut down on effort;
- Encouraging creativity: Remote workers should be encouraged to think creatively and accept responsibility for their job. This can help to build trusting connections and create pride in one’s work.
3. Versatility
Working remotely has several advantages, one of which is the freedom of location and timing it provides team members. Resilient teams take use of this versatility by establishing work routines that best suit the demands of each team member. Remote teams can exhibit adaptability in the following ways:
- Flexible work hours: The members should all be available at set hours, but otherwise, they should be free to work whenever is most convenient for them. This can help team members stay productive and avoid burnout;
- Flexible location: Members should be free to put in hours from their preferred locations, be they their own homes, shared office spaces, or favorite coffee shops;
- Time off: Remote teams should encourage team members to take time off as needed, whether it’s for personal or professional reasons.
4. Strong Leadership
Resilient remote teams need strong leadership to thrive. Leaders are essential because they establish the group’s mood, lay out the group’s objectives, and provide necessary encouragement and direction. Here are some key traits of effective leaders:
- Clear communication: Leaders who work remotely effectively are good communicators who can share their goals with their team and set a tone of high expectation and enthusiasm;
- Empathy: Successful leaders are empathic, able to comprehend the needs and concerns of individual team members, and willing to offer assistance and direction when necessary;
- Adaptability: Effective leaders are adaptable, able to pivot quickly when circumstances change, and make decisions that keep the team on track;
- Trust: It is essential to have trust in your team members’ skills to complete tasks and maintain their word. They offer assistance when needed but otherwise push their team members to make decisions on their own;
- Vision: Successful leaders see the big picture and are able to inspire and encourage their teams by sharing their vision with them.
5. Focus on Outcomes
Resilient remote teams prioritize outcomes over inputs. This means that they value output over inputs such as time spent on a task or the length of time spent on it. Here are some ways remote teams can focus on outcomes.
Clear goals
Remote teams should establish clear goals and metrics for success so that everyone on the team is aligned around those goals and understands what they need to do to achieve them.
Continuous improvement
Resilient teams prioritize continuous improvement, always looking for ways to optimize their processes, streamline their workflows, and eliminate inefficiencies.
Reflection
Resilient teams analyze their past accomplishments and setbacks to guide their present and future choices. This might help the team maintain focus and avoid making the same mistakes again.
Collaboration
Resilient remote teams prioritize collaboration, working together to achieve common goals and share insights and expertise. This can help the team achieve better outcomes and work more efficiently.
Results-oriented culture
Resilient teams cultivate a culture that is focused on results. This means celebrating successes, holding team members accountable for meeting goals, and prioritizing outcomes over inputs.
Conclusion
To excel in the current work environment, remote teams must cultivate habits that promote productivity, engagement, and resilience. This requires adopting practices that allow them to adapt to the changing demands of their work and sustain their motivation and focus over time. By continuously prioritizing and enhancing these habits, remote teams can build a strong foundation for success and achieve their objectives.
