How to Collaborate with a Remote Team Member

For many professionals, group projects are a real challenge. Not only do group projects tend to be large undertakings that require a lot of time and energy, but coordinating with multiple people on a single task may also prove to be a struggle. Of course, these difficulties are amplified when one or more team members work remotely some or all of the time. Yet, the reality is that a huge number of professionals are remote workers. And that number is likely to increase in the future. With that in mind, today we’ll share four tips for professionals looking to boost their collaboration levels with remote coworkers. Check them out here:

Schedule Regular Check-Ins

The sad reality is that many business meetings are unnecessary. If you’ve ever sat through a boring presentation during the middle of the day, you know exactly what we’re talking about. Yet, it’s crucial for remote team members to always be on the same page. You don’t have to hold long-drawn out planning sessions with remote team members, but you should keep tabs on everyone’s progress. Whether you’re working to develop a new line of 12 Well Plates or you’re redesigning a website, checking in every day is a great way to ensure nothing important slips through the cracks.

Always be Polite

Miscommunications happen; people don’t always mean what they say. This is a fact of life. Unfortunately, speaking with a remote team member exclusively via email or text message increases the chances of misunderstandings occuring. As such, it’s crucial to always be polite when dealing with remote workers. You wouldn’t want to accidentally hurt someone’s feelings with a message you sent them. So make it a point to review your responses before you hit “send.” Workplace rudeness will only hinder productivity.

Compromise

Sometimes, professionals are asked to collaborate with employees halfway across the world. Given the massive spatial distance between partners, some compromises may have to be made when working together. Pick times that work for both of you to communicate and be mindful of any cultural or national holidays your remote team member may want to celebrate. You wouldn’t want someone sending you an urgent email on the Fourth of July, would you? (If you have to work on a holiday, try to make the best of the situation.)

Stay Goal-Oriented

Tackling a big project can be tricky under the best of circumstances. When working with remote team members, it’s particularly important for everyone to stay focused on individual and communal goals. This is a solid way to foster camaraderie and boost morale in one step. There’s nothing better than coming together with your team to achieve a positive outcome!

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes.