No one can deny that Covid-19 threw a spanner in the works when it came to remote working. With organisations being forced to make immediate changes to enable their teams to adapt to new ways of working, the world of work we once knew, no longer existed.

For many organisations, leaders were the driving force to ensure the transition to remote working did not hinder business success and employees felt the same connectedness with their colleagues as they once did in the office.

At the end of the day, communication in globally dispersed teams is a human challenge, not a technological one

– Hannah Prince, Insights Business Psychologist

So how can organisations and leaders, lead teams to overcome issues that have arisen from dispersed collaboration?

Utilise technology

Working teams, ideally, will be united on both a personal and task-related basis. A modern workplace thrives off communication and collaboration systems which allow employees to remain connected. Modern technologies have allowed organisations to skyrocket their success regardless of geographical location, with the ability to have live chats and work on documents in unison. If you aren’t already making the most of these technological advances, you really should!

Open all lines of communication

Constant communication is more important now than ever, scheduling regular touch points with your team can ensure they feel supported. These touch points can include:

•             Weekly team meetings
•             Status updates
•             Open office hours for your team to speak with you on any matters
•             360° feedback sessions

Make sure the ways of communication are effective

It is all well and good establishing touch points, but if you and your team aren’t making the most of these opportunities then they cannot collaborate effectively for success. When scheduling meetings ensure you have a solid agenda to get you going, encouraging all to participate and interact in the meeting.

Incorporate just-for-fun sessions

We know how important understanding your team members’ is to ensure a cohesive and well-oiled machine-like team. With many teams located all over the country, even world, unable to engage in face-to-face small talk over a tea break in the office, considering some ‘just-for-fun’ sessions can be a great way to ensure your team are collaborating in a social manner. With Gallaghers State of the Sector 2023, stating 46% respondents believe that poor internal communication relates to staff attrition, it is undeniable that organisations must create space and channels for employees to feel heard and understood at all times, whether this is be personal or task-related.

If you’re leading a dispersed team and are struggling to ensure they are collaborating as effectively as possible to achieve your business goals, Social Agility can help. Contact us for more information.