Cindi Cohn

The most important thing a leader can do is show people that are valued, seen, and appreciated. It is not rocket science- it is simply being a good human and leader. Take the time to notice the things they are doing every day and send a note of appreciation. A written thank you is so valued, but even a video message or email can go a long way. Make the time to recognize the hard work of your people, and your business will thrive. The ripple effect is the secret sauce. Show people you care with actions, consistency, and appreciation.

Virtual teams require a leader who is willing to put in the initial work to form a cohesive team, and continue with consistency to provide time, transparent communication, and regular meetings to keep the alignment going. In addition, initiate small windows of times to meet to chat about things unrelated to the scope of the work. Incorporating some FUN can go a long way in building camaraderie, which leads to increased morale and productivity. Building relationships take time, but so worth the extra effort that the leader can do with care. As with any team, virtual or not, building trust is a very essential foundational element.

Leadership has an important role of being the example, and that is the most influential position to make a huge impact in your team. Unfortunately, many leaders need to do better in this area. In addition, if you hire the right people, there is no need to micromanage, as each person is accountable and performing to the objectives and goals set for the team. Open and frequent communication, is the best medicine to avoid ambiguity and misalignment.

As a good leader, you are always in tune with the different personalities and needs of each team member, so you lead the discussion to include everyone equally. You give adaquate time to each person and encourage the team members to actively listen and avoid being dominant of the conversation. It is also important to create a safe environment where each person feels heard, seen, valued, and included. This takes a skilled leader who truly understands the dynamics of a team and can lead people in a positive direction.

Team communication is best addressed initially by having regular team meetings, and opportunities to build relationships and bonding, through non-work activities, too. If a problem exists, it should be dealt with transparently with all parties open to feedback and interested in resolving. Sometimes lack of expectations from the beginning could have impact on the team's experience. It is always best for each person on the team to clearly understand their role and the way it impacts others on the team. When a problem exists, prompt open communication is the best course of action.

Remote teams deserve equal attention, as in person teams, but needs to be done with more intentionality. If you are meeting regularly, you will have a temperature reading on the team members individually and know how you can support each person, in their own unique way. Each person is different and requires different things. Being a good leader is being able to decipher that, and provide the essential leadership and support that each person on the team needs. Recognition, often and early, are important ingredients that help team motivation. When you get to a place that team members are recognizing each other, then, you have a great team environment!