Virtual teams are growing in popularity since many companies continue to grow and expand in different areas. But sometimes learning to manage a team that we can’t physically see every day can be difficult. When we learn how to manage our local teams, as well as our virtual teams, we can form a group that works together to increase productivity and provides a new perspective on any project.

Course Outline

INTRODUCTION
Course Objectives

MODULE 1
Setting Up Your Virtual Team (I)
Choose Self-Motivated People with Initiative
Face to Face Meetings at First (Kick-off Meeting)
Diversity Will Add Value
Experienced with Technology
Knowledge Check

MODULE 2
Setting Up Your Virtual Team (II)
Personality Can Count as Much as Skills
Rules of Engagement
Setting up Ground Rules
Icebreakers and Introductions
Knowledge Check

MODULE 3
Virtual Team Meetings
Scheduling Will Always Be an Issue
Create a Clear Objective and Agenda
Solicit Additional Topics in Advance
Discourage Just Being a Status Report
Knowledge Check

MODULE 4
Communication (I)
Early and Often
Rules of Responsiveness
Face to Face When Possible
Choose the Best Tool
Knowledge Check

MODULE 5
Communication (II)
Be Honest and Clear
Stay in Constant Contact
Don’t Make Assumptions
Set Up Email Protocols
Knowledge Check

MODULE 6
Building Trust
Trust Your Team and They Will Trust You
Beware of “Us vs. Them” Territorial Issues
Share Best Practices
Create a Sense of Ownership
Knowledge Check

MODULE 7
Cultural Issues
Respect and Embrace Differences
Be Aware of Different Work Styles
Know Your Team Members Cultural Background
Dealing with Stereotypes
Knowledge Check

MODULE 8
To Succeed With a Virtual Team
Set Clear Goals
Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Build a Team Culture
Provide Timely Feedback
Knowledge Check

MODULE 9
Dealing With Poor Team Players
Manage Their Results, Not Their Activities
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Check In Often
Remove Them
Knowledge Check

MODULE 10
Choosing the Right Tools
Communication Software
Collaboration and Sharing Tools
Project Management Software
Use What Works for You and Your Team
Knowledge Check

ASSESSMENT
Post-Test