How can you build trust in hybrid teams?

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

Communication is the key to building trust in any team, but especially in hybrid teams. You need to ensure that everyone has the same information, expectations, and feedback, regardless of where they work. Use a variety of communication channels, such as video calls, chat apps, emails, and phone calls, to suit different purposes and preferences. Communicate regularly and consistently, and avoid leaving anyone out of the loop. Encourage open and honest communication , and invite questions, suggestions, and feedback from all team members.

2 Foster social connection

Trust is not only based on professional competence, but also on personal rapport. Hybrid teams can miss out on the informal and spontaneous interactions that happen in the office, such as coffee breaks, lunch chats, and water cooler conversations. These interactions can help team members get to know each other better, build relationships, and create a sense of belonging. To foster social connection in hybrid teams, you can create opportunities for virtual socializing, such as virtual happy hours, games, quizzes, or icebreakers. You can also encourage team members to share something personal or fun about themselves, such as their hobbies, interests, or pets.

3 Recognize and appreciate

Trust also depends on recognition and appreciation. Hybrid teams can feel disconnected or undervalued if they don't receive enough acknowledgment or praise for their work. Recognition and appreciation can motivate team members, boost their morale, and reinforce their trust in you and the team. To recognize and appreciate hybrid teams, you can use public or private channels to celebrate achievements, milestones, or successes. You can also use rewards, incentives, or perks to show your gratitude and support. You can also ask team members to nominate or thank each other for their contributions.

4 Empower and support

Trust also requires empowerment and support. Hybrid teams can feel micromanaged or unsupported if they don't have enough autonomy or resources to do their work. Empowerment and support can enhance team members' confidence, creativity, and productivity, and strengthen their trust in you and the team. To empower and support hybrid teams, you can delegate tasks and responsibilities, and give them the freedom and flexibility to choose how, when, and where they work. You can also provide them with the tools, training, and guidance they need to perform their work. You can also check in with them regularly, and offer your help or advice when needed.

5 Collaborate and cooperate

Trust also involves collaboration and cooperation. Hybrid teams can face difficulties or conflicts when working together on projects or tasks, due to different work styles, schedules, or expectations. Collaboration and cooperation can improve team members' understanding, alignment, and performance, and foster their trust in each other and the team. To collaborate and cooperate with hybrid teams, you can use online platforms or tools that enable easy sharing, editing, and commenting on documents or files. You can also set clear and realistic goals, roles, and deadlines, and monitor and track the progress and outcomes. You can also encourage team members to communicate, coordinate, and consult with each other, and resolve any issues or disputes promptly and respectfully.

6 Lead by example

Trust also depends on leadership. Hybrid teams can lose trust in you or the team if they don't see you as a credible, reliable, and trustworthy leader. Leading by example can inspire team members, influence their behavior, and build their trust in you and the team. To lead by example in hybrid teams, you can model the values, attitudes, and actions that you expect from your team. You can also demonstrate your competence, commitment, and integrity, and deliver on your promises and responsibilities. You can also show your empathy, respect, and care for your team, and treat them fairly and equally.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?