You're working with a remote team. How can you keep everyone on the same page?

Setting clear expectations is great - but making agreements is better. People don't like to meet expectations, but they will keep their promises if they commit to them. So create a space to discuss what you want from your future collaboration, define your roles and commit to them together, rather than just communicating your expectations to others.

Communicate goals, deadlines, and performance standards clearly and precisely. Ensure everyone comprehends their roles and responsibilities within the team.

O óbvio precisa ser dito, então deixe todos os combinados visíveis a todos. Não é porque está claro para alguns que é claro para todos, daí a importância de uma comunicação eficiente. Tenha canais oficiais para informar combinados, tenha murais virtuais para fixar regras e procedimentos, tenha reuniões de alinhamento onde essas regras, procedimentos e valores sejam reforçados. Quando todos sabem o que é esperado, aí é muito mais fácil que todos façam o esperado e até mais!

I find that instead of the team leader "setting expectations" it is much more effective to lead the team through a process to negotiate and establish a team agreement that integrates individual, team, and organizational needs and requirements. It starts by each team member reflecting individually about their work styles and communication preferences. Then in duos or small groups, colleagues exchange their views to get a feeling for those things that need to be negotiated and agreed upon. Finally, at the team level, the whole group forges an agreement that is put in writing, and that is reviews regularly (initially monthly) to adapt it to the team's reality.

Remote teams often feel disconnected and find that current tools are not enough to build team spirit and engagement. Missing those unplanned water cooler chats or lunchtime get-togethers can be painful. But there are tools that can be a game changer. The remote workspaces provided by the Gather tool give you an immersive and effective environment for your remote team. Within a week we could feel the difference. Since then, I don't distinguish whether the person I'm talking to is in the same city or not. I have fewer meetings. I experience an efficient exchange of information and quick notifications when I need them. I can always see what's going on and it's motivating to be surrounded by others.

Especially in times that are not perfect, perhaps stressful or simply difficult, a high level of personal connection and trust within your team is essential. Trusting your colleagues (and yourself) is the basis for transforming conflict, performing and achieving your goals. So how do you build trust between people? I believe in sharing experiences and revealing ourselves to each other. 💚 Talking about funny or weird things, things you haven't talked about before, gives you the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, show vulnerability and automatically connect on a much deeper level with another person. it gives you a common memory to refer to.

Foster regular and informal interactions to strengthen team bonds. Encourage transparency and openness in communication, creating a trusting environment.

There are several ways a remote team can build a close working relationship. Even if you cannot meet in person, virtual one-on-one meetings are still valuable. My team uses a variety of communication tools, including a secure message blog and emails, a brief weekly group “check-in” meeting, monthly project discussions, and a monthly professional development meeting. All of these are brief but routine. They can be in person, virtual, or hybrid. We are also encouraged to call each other to ask questions from time to time. While long water cooler chats could develop into a distraction, short and routine interactions can help develop a team into a well-oiled machine.

Conduct periodic assessments of team performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Provide constructive feedback to continually enhance work processes.

Recognize and respect the diverse realities and needs of team members. Be open to adjusting working methods as circumstances evolve.

After setting the expectations, working on trust it’s important to review what is working & what isn’t? You will need to work on being a facilitator to fix what doesn’t work & put in the work to get more thought process. Cheers!

I would say review and improve is one of the most important steps of having everyone on the same page. Reviewing the employees’ work with them, and explaining what could be improved and what is excellent helps everyone to understand what is expected within the job, as well as what is the quality of work needed.

- Establish clear communication channels and promote a culture of open communication. - Empower the team with training in digital and online collaboration skills. - Acknowledge the importance of balance and encourage healthy remote work practices. - Organize virtual social events to maintain cohesion and strengthen interpersonal bonds. - Set clear guidelines regarding working hours, communication protocols, and expectations for smooth operations.