There has been a huge rise in virtual team working over the last few years. More of us than ever are using technology to communicate, collaborate and connect with our colleagues. And virtual teams offer many benefits. For example, they break down boundaries of space and time. They allow people to work more flexibly and they help bring together people with the best experience and expertise, regardless of where they happen to be in the world. But, virtual teams can also present challenges, particularly when it comes to communication and relationship building, which can have an impact on team success. So, how can we overcome these challenges and work well together in a virtual space? First, good communication is essential. Most virtual teams use a range of communication tools, such as video call technology, instant messaging apps, and online collaboration tools. They all have their pros and cons, so discuss which to use and when, and agree how you're going to get the best out of them. When you meet online, make sure everyone can hear and see each other before you start your meeting. Encourage everyone to contribute. Avoid talking over each other and to ask questions if they've missed something. At a distance, it's all too easy to misunderstand or misinterpret people, so you'll need to put extra effort into communicating clearly, openly and honestly. Relationship building can be a particular challenge for virtual teams, particularly if they are dispersed across the globe. In an office setting, coworkers develop bonds through face-to-face collaboration and socializing. But, in a virtual team, trust is built on reliability, consistency, and responsiveness. This is called ability-based or task-based trust. Build trust with your team by meeting deadlines and keeping your word. Regularly check in with everyone about task progress, too. Also, be sensitive to your colleagues' different time zones. Try to schedule meetings that suit everyone or that cause the least amount of disruption for most people. Finally, promote inclusion. When you are part of a virtual team, it's all too easy to feel isolated from your coworkers and even, at times, your entire organization. There may be plenty of chances to meet virtually, but people can still struggle to participate and they may end up feeling excluded from conversations, decisions, and events as a result. To combat this, be on the lookout for teammates who are particularly quiet or who appear disengaged, and talk to them about what might help. Consider rotating the chair's role in team meetings, for example, or introducing buddying or mentoring schemes. Be creative about how you run fun, social events that connect virtual colleagues from across the organization. These can be particularly helpful for new starters getting to know the organization, and can provide opportunities for existing colleagues to connect outside of their team. They may even lead to unexpected opportunities for collaboration and allow people to share ideas. By remembering these three key ingredients of successful virtual team working: good communication, strong relationships, and inclusion, you'll be well on your way to making your virtual team a fun, creative and enjoyable space to be. © 2023 Mind Tools Ltd.