The first step to communicate effectively with remote collaborators is to choose the right tools for your needs. Depending on the type and frequency of communication, you may use different tools, such as email, chat, video conferencing, project management software, or cloud storage. Make sure that you and your collaborators agree on which tools to use, how to access them, and how to troubleshoot them. Also, consider the security, reliability, and compatibility of the tools you use.
In a physical office, you can quickly switch between a quick chat, a scheduled meeting, or a detailed email depending on the situation. Remote communication requires a bit more intentionality. Here's the key: Use project management tools like ProofHub with chat features or instant messaging platforms. These are great for real-time back-and-forth and keeping everyone on the same page. Moreover, everyone has access to the latest information, reducing confusion and keeping everyone on the same page. Schedule video calls. Seeing facial expressions and body language helps with clear communication and fosters a sense of connection. It's also great for complex topics or brainstorming sessions where visual aids might be helpful.
To boost productivity and streamline communication across projects, consider the following guidelines & write them down as a team contract for using your tools. Here's an example: Jira & Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets): Ideal for tracking work progress. @mentions: Aim for same-day responses. Task assignments: Respond when you start working on it. Slack: Great for quick, team-wide updates. @mentions and urgent issues: Respond within the day. General messages: Response times can be flexible. Email: Suitable for non-urgent communications. Expected response: Within the same day to a few days. Phone Calls: Reserved for immediate concerns. Response time: Within minutes to hours.
It is really important to have the right tools in place in my case I would recomment Microsoft Teams to work with remote workers. Make sure you work in the same team share files in the team. And make meetings from the channel so that everyone can join at any time
My top three would be: Communication is key. Set up a collaborative workspace. Set clear and healthy working boundaries. The key to clear communication with collaborators is to ensure that before you get started you establish a clear central channel for you all to share ideas on and stay updated.
Existe diferentes plataformas on line de poder conectarnos con los colaboradores. En caso, no funcione existe el whatsapp, plataformas propias de la empresa reforzandolo con dias de integracion
The second step to communicate effectively with remote collaborators is to establish clear goals and expectations for your project or task. This means defining the scope, timeline, deliverables, roles, and responsibilities of each collaborator. You should also agree on how to measure progress, provide feedback, and resolve conflicts. By setting clear goals and expectations, you can avoid confusion, frustration, and duplication of work.
The third step to communicate effectively with remote collaborators is to communicate regularly and respectfully. This means keeping in touch with your collaborators, updating them on your status, asking for help, and acknowledging their contributions. You should also be respectful of their time, culture, and preferences. For example, you should avoid sending messages at odd hours, using jargon or slang, or making assumptions. Instead, you should use clear, concise, and polite language, and check for understanding.
In my experience, respect, goodwill, company culture are critical to create an environment where the employees feel free to communicate regularly. When working remotely, communication might be the first thing that is complicated, even inexistent, and then the working flow is altered. Whatever the tools, you need to ensure that any person speak when they feel it and encourage cross-team communication, cross-projects etc. Do not hesitate to make regular feedback and on-going projects status. I often realised when working remotely that I have no idea what my colleague are working on or where the project is going. It is important to create specific meetings to update team members and encourage spontaneous communication between each other.
The fourth step to communicate effectively with remote collaborators is to use multiple modes of communication. This means using different formats and channels to convey your message, such as text, audio, video, or visuals. By using multiple modes of communication, you can enhance your clarity, express your tone, and engage your audience. For example, you can use text for simple updates, audio for brainstorming, video for presentations, and visuals for data.
Multiple modes of communication? Yes. Multiple platforms for communication? No. If your communication is spread out across Teams, Slack, Google, and/or other various platforms, things will inevitably slip through the cracks.
The fifth step to communicate effectively with remote collaborators is to embrace diversity and inclusivity. This means recognizing and appreciating the different backgrounds, perspectives, and skills of your collaborators. You should also be mindful of the potential barriers and biases that may affect your communication, such as language, culture, or accessibility. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, you can foster a positive and productive work environment, and learn from each other.
The sixth step to communicate effectively with remote collaborators is to seek feedback and improvement. This means asking for and giving constructive feedback on your communication skills, methods, and outcomes. You should also be open to learning new tools, techniques, and best practices to improve your communication. By seeking feedback and improvement, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, address any issues, and enhance your performance.
Bei aller Tool-Verliebtheit und Überlegungen zu bestmöglicher Produktivität, finde ich es wichtig, zwischendurch auch mal zu horchen wie es den Kolleg:innen geht. Das kann ein kurzer Anruf aus dem Auto ohne speziellen Grund sein. Ganz ohne Agenda und Outlook-Termineinladung. Ja, ich weiß, dass mancher keinen Smalltalk mag. Irgendwo muss es aber ja entstehen, das freundliche Miteinander...