When 'global' means global.

Over the years I’ve been part of a number of global teams – but when does 'global' really mean global? I believe only when it actually works. It’s not a term you can just throw around and hope that everything comes together, you have to put some bloody effort into making it a reality. And I'm delighted that after many years of trying (and in all honestly gradually becoming more and more cynical that it was even possible) we really seem to have nailed it with our shiny new global comms team at CDK. So I thought I’d share some of the little things I think make all the difference….

All I’m asking is for a little respect – Aretha Franklin

I believe respect is a critical element of a successful team, and it’s really as simple as doing what you said you were going to do. I can’t tell you how many regular calls I dialed into, only for there to be no one on the other end of the phone. Maintaining strong long-distance working relationships is no different to any other kind of relationship. You have to put time and effort in, to keep that flame burning. We get together virtually once a week to talk about all things work (and life too sometimes), and everyone makes a commitment to keep this hour sacred no matter what else they have going on. If we remember we also turn on our webcams – which I despise, but it does help to make you feel more connected.

Pas Parle Americano – Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP

Sweet Jesus, if I had a pound for every time I have asked ‘have we thought about translations?’ or ‘has anyone considered we might need works council approval?’ I would be a gazillionaire. Working in a global team means considering that there are other countries in the world outside of England and America. And they might speak different languages, be in different time zones and have different rules. It doesn’t take a lot of time to understand the basics of each other’s geographies and business units so we can all be mindful of these things. And thankfully I am now part of a team who have taken that time, and if one of us isn’t sure about something, we just ask.

Because we are your friends – Justice vs. Simian

I like to talk, so choose your desk wisely. If you sit next to me, I will talk to you. This is not everyone’s cup of tea I know, but it's how I build working relationships, by getting to know the person and not the role they are in. I think this has been a defining feature of our new team. We spend so much of our lives at work, it’s nice to feel like you have friendships there. We were lucky enough to meet in person last year, and made time for some social stuff so that we could get to know each other outside of the office. Of course there's always a time for serious business talk, but if you can make work fun too then we might all be that little bit more excited about getting up on a Monday morning.

If you need me call me, no matter where you are, no matter how far – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Everyone’s workload and outside life pressures vary throughout the year. The beauty of having a team is that you are not alone in this. We sometimes instant message each other if we’re having a challenging day, and have a WhatsApp group to stay connected outside of work. Whether someone is sharing their holiday photos or it’s a late night panic about which languages we need to translate into, we've created a safe space and agreed by joining the group that this is what we’re here for, anytime, anywhere – though my spelling may decline after a few G&Ts (after hours of course).

Let it go, let it go – Idina Menzel

I was the first member of our team, so many of our established ways of working and channels were my early ideas. When we became global we had a bigger, more diverse audience to think about, and people had new and different ideas on how things could work. The way you deal with these differences of opinion is what shapes how you work as a team. Even if you disagree, it’s good to try new things and see what works. There’s no right or wrong answer.

Who run the world? Girls. - Beyonce

This one is a little tongue in cheek, but in truth my team are all women. They are daughters, wives, mothers, and they are wonderful role models. They vary from new to the industry to incredibly experienced, some have travelled the world, some lived overseas, and some speak different languages (or are trying to like me!). This brings a magical diverse mix of knowledge, skills and experience to our team, regardless of gender. I feel blessed to have finally found such a lovely bunch.

As you might have noticed, each of these points reminded me of a song lyric, which amused me slightly whilst writing it. I would love to hear your suggestions if you have some other top tips and best practices to share.