You’re struggling to communicate with remote teams. How can you make it work?

2 Set clear expectations

Communication can break down if you don't have a shared understanding of what, when, how, and why you communicate. You need to establish clear expectations and guidelines for your remote team, such as the frequency and format of meetings, the response time and tone of messages, the roles and responsibilities of each member, and the goals and deadlines of each task. You also need to communicate these expectations and guidelines clearly and consistently, and make sure everyone is on the same page.

3 Be flexible and respectful

Working with remote teams means dealing with different time zones, cultures, and styles of communication. You need to be flexible and respectful of these differences, and avoid imposing your own preferences or assumptions on others. You also need to be mindful of the challenges and limitations that remote work may entail, such as connectivity issues, distractions, or isolation. You can show your flexibility and respect by adjusting your schedule, using inclusive language, acknowledging contributions, and expressing empathy.

4 Use multiple channels

Communication systems are not only about transmitting information, but also about building relationships and trust. You need to use multiple channels to communicate with your remote team, and not rely on one mode or medium. You can use video calls to see each other's faces and body language, voice calls to hear each other's tone and emotion, text messages to share quick updates and feedback, and email to document important decisions and details. You can also use social media or chat apps to create a sense of community and camaraderie.

5 Ask for feedback

Communication is a two-way street, and you need to make sure that your messages are received and understood as you intended. You also need to know how your remote team members feel about the communication systems and processes that you use, and what improvements or changes they may suggest. You can ask for feedback regularly and openly, and encourage your team to share their opinions and concerns. You can also use surveys, polls, or quizzes to measure the effectiveness and satisfaction of your communication.

6 Keep learning

Communication systems are constantly evolving and changing, and you need to keep up with the latest trends and innovations. You also need to keep learning from your own experience and from others who work with remote teams. You can seek new information and insights from online courses, podcasts, blogs, or books. You can also join online communities, forums, or networks where you can exchange tips, best practices, and challenges with other professionals. You can also experiment with new tools, methods, or strategies, and see what works best for you and your team.

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?