While it may be astounding that we

can have a virtual meeting with people on different continents,

it can also be frustrating.

And these frustrations can affect morale, engagement,

productivity, and innovation.

When changes in the ways we communicate lead

to changes in how others perceive our communications,

this calls for a new set of protocols and behaviors.

Authors Erica Dhawan and Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic

have a few rules of thumb for communicating

with remote teams.

First, since clarity and consistency are key,

sticking to a set of agreed upon norms can help avoid confusion.

This could range from a set of acronyms

about expected response times to standardizing use

of particular communication platforms.

Next, remember that you can never be too clear.

Unless you've established a shorthand protocol ahead

of time, don't assume others understand your brevity.

Take the extra time to be extra clear, regardless

of the medium.

Third, don't bombard your team with messages.

Each time you email, text, or call

imagine that you are physically walking into your colleagues

workspace.

If you followed up an email by text and phone,

it would be like opening their office

door three times in a row.

Minimize your digital volume, and think wisely

before hitting send.

Forth, notice that team members who

are more introverted in person can really benefit

from written communications.

Physical barriers can actually level the playing field

for those who may be less inclined to speak

in group settings.

Lastly, find ways to celebrate and socialize

remotely to strengthen relationships

between team members and improve collaboration.

Even a simple switch from conference calls to video,

for instance, can boost rapport and create empathy.

The challenges of remote teams will not disappear,

but creating consistent rules, rituals, and protocols

will go a long way in building a new communication skill set.

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