Managing a remote team can be tricky, right? You’re not alone—many leaders feel unsure about how to keep their teams connected through a computer screen.
It’s not just about sending Zoom links and Slack messages; it’s about knowing what makes your team feel connected and engaged, even from miles away.
The secret to managing a remote team isn’t just having the right tools—it’s about knowing what makes your team work well together.
So, let’s take a closer look at the psychology behind remote teams and how you can use it to keep everyone feeling connected and productive.
The Psychology Behind Remote Teams
Here’s the thing: We’re all social by nature. In an office, it’s easy to bump into someone for a quick chat or catch up over coffee. But with remote teams, those little moments don’t happen as naturally.
When people feel disconnected, they can start to feel isolated, which isn’t just bad for morale—it can hurt productivity, too. A disconnected team doesn’t work as well together, which can lead to misunderstandings and frustrations.
I’ve been there. Last year, I was working hybrid in our Irving, Texas office. Even though I only went in twice a week, I still felt connected to what was happening in the firm.
But then, my stepfather passed away, and my mom was struggling. She’d say things like, “I’d be happier if I were with him—I know he’s waiting for me.” That really scared me, so I moved back home to be with her.
While I enjoy working remotely, there are times I feel like I’m missing out on all the action. That’s why trust is so important in a remote setting.
Building and keeping that trust starts with creating a strong connection with your team. But how do you do that when you’re all working from different places?
3 Hacks for a Stronger, More Connected Remote Team
These simple hacks are easy to put into action, and they make a big difference in keeping everyone connected – no matter where they’re working from.
1. Regular Check-Ins are a Must
Trust me, it’s easy for remote teams to feel like they’re out of sight and out of mind. Regular check-ins, whether they’re one-on-one or with the whole team, can foster that connection and keep everyone on the same page.
To help you get started, you can set up a recurring calendar event for short, weekly check-ins. They don’t have to be long—just 15-20 minutes to catch up and share updates. This is also a great time to offer some helpful feedback and coaching!
2. Transparency Builds Trust
Without transparency, your team might start to feel overlooked and left in the dark. Being transparent builds trust because it shows your team that you’re open about what’s happening within the company.
A simple way to build this transparency is to lead by example. Try breaking the ice and telling them what you’re working on and why it matters. When you’re open, it encourages your team to be open, too. This creates a culture where everyone feels connected and engaged.
3. Incorporate Virtual Team Building
Since remote teams often feel like they’re missing out, it’s important to interact intentionally. Virtual team building is a great way to help everyone feel like they’re part of a community, even when they’re far apart.
One fun way to do this is by hosting a monthly virtual game night. Just pick a simple online game like trivia or Pictionary that everyone can join. It’s a great way to bring the team together, share some laughs, and build that sense of community.
Conclusion
Managing a remote team isn’t easy, but with the right approach, you can make it work. The key is being intentional.
When you focus on building trust, maintaining connection, and fostering a sense of community, you turn the challenge of remote work into an opportunity.
With these hacks, you won’t just manage a remote team—you’ll lead one that’s strong, engaged, and ready to succeed, no matter the distance.
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