When you compare in-person work relationships and virtual work relationships, the two can be vastly different.
In a virtual work relationship, there is an even higher need for clear communication, and sometimes, some back-and-forth needs to happen before reaching the end result.
So how can we make these relationship work better for everyone? Here are a few ideas:
Don’t just focus on the professional side
Just as you might chat with a coworker about their weekend, while a virtual team IS virtual, they’re still people. As with any professional relationship, there are definitely boundaries, but sharing stories about children, pets or family, in general, go a very long way in building trust and connection.
When you assume…
Don’t ever assume anything about who you are working with. When choosing a virtual team member, remember that they are human and it’s going to take time to learn about them, just as it will take time for them to learn about you. Using clear and concise language in your communications, asking questions and using inclusive terms like “we” will unify you as a team.
Also never assume that your virtual team is always going to be available exactly when you need them. Most virtual teams work with a variety of clients and are juggling more than one project at a time.
Validation is key
Working with any team means collaborating with others, and the same also applies to a virtual staff. Point out when something has been done well, or a good point has been made. A smiley emojii can do a world of good in the digital world.
Get face-to-face
Everyone works differently and we are all so busy, but if you have the chance to have a face to face video call, DO IT! Things can easily get lost in translation through emails and messages, and often the only way to truly clear up any misunderstandings is to have that face to face call. Zoom is terrific for this!
Check-in or follow up with one another
This is key in any relationship but more so in a virtual work relationship because virtual team members don’t see each other as often as they might see a coworker in a brick-and-mortar office.
Simply letting your team know where you’ve left off, asking for suggestions or ideas, it all helps to build more intimate relationships with your team and adds so much more value.
Ready to expand your team to include virtual assistance? Book a free consultation with me by clicking here and let’s talk.
