Setting Up Your Virtual Team (I)

Choose Self-Motivated People with Initiative

Face to Face Meetings at First (Kick-off Meeting)

Diversity Will Add Value

Experienced with Technology

Setting Up Your Virtual Team (II)

Personality Can Count as Much as Skills

Rules of Engagement

Setting up Ground Rules

Icebreakers and Introductions

Virtual Team Meetings

Scheduling Will Always Be an Issue

Create a Clear Objective and Agenda

Solicit Additional Topics in Advance

Discourage Just Being a Status Report

Communication (I)

Early and Often

Rules of Responsiveness

Face to Face When Possible

Choose the Best Tool

Communication (II)

Be Honest and Clear

Stay in Constant Contact

Don’t Make Assumptions

Set Up Email Protocols

Building Trust

Trust Your Team and They Will Trust You

Beware of “Us vs. Them” Territorial Issues

Share Best Practices

Create a Sense of Ownership

Cultural Issues

Respect and Embrace Differences

Be Aware of Different Work Styles

Know Your Team Members Cultural Background

Dealing with Stereotypes

To Succeed With a Virtual Team

Set Clear Goals

Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Build a Team Culture

Provide Timely Feedback

Dealing With Poor Team Players

Manage Their Results, Not Their Activities

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Check In Often

Remove Them

Choosing the Right Tools

Communication Software

Collaboration and Sharing Tools

Project Management Software

Use What Works for You and Your Team