Virtual teams are similar to traditional teams with people located in different places. Myth or Reality?

Virtual teams are becoming increasingly popular and with this popularity we continue to learn more about them and the distinct way they operate. Although there are similarities to traditional teams, virtual teams differ in a number of ways. Some of what you believe about virtual teams may not be reality. Over the next few weeks we will be sharing five myths and realities of virtual teams.

 

Let's get started!

 

MYTH 1: VIRTUAL TEAMS ARE SIMILAR TO TRADITIONAL TEAMS WITH PEOPLE LOCATED IN DIFFERENT PLACES.

 

The Reality: This has some truth but virtual teams are not the same as onsite teams. They present different challenges and team dynamics.  Don't make the mistake of simply transferring what you know about teams to virtual situations.  These teams are a lot more involved. While all teams need to have goals and operating principles, virtual teams face the greater task of building agreement with a group of people who work across time zones and may never meet.

 

Advice: While interviewing virtual team members and managers in preparation for this book,  a virtual team manager at a business communications organization gave the following advice:

 

"Treat virtual teams differently. Don't assume they are the same. You need to be more upfront and more open about challenges and about contracting with your virtual staff. Remote employees, multiple time zones, communication mechanisms and accountability continue to be the top issues for virtual teams."

 

Stay tuned. We will be exploring more myths in the upcoming weeks.