How to build exceptional remote team cultures

The remote work revolution is here to stay. While it offers flexibility and global talent pools, fostering a strong company culture across geographical divides presents a unique challenge. Here's how to cultivate an exceptional remote team culture that thrives, not just survives.

Start with the Foundation: Values & Communication

• Define Your Core Values: What makes your company special? Clearly define and communicate your core values to your remote team. These values should guide hiring decisions, behaviour, decision-making, and foster a sense of shared purpose.
• Communication is Key: Establish clear communication protocols – preferred communication channels, meeting schedules, and expectations for response times. Tools like Slack, Zoom, and project management platforms can be your allies in fostering consistent and transparent communication.

Building Trust & Connection: It's All About People

• Hire for Culture Fit: Beyond skills, prioritise hiring individuals who align with your company values. This helps build a strong foundation for trust and collaboration.
• Onboarding that Welcomes: Don't let new hires feel like digital ghosts. Design an onboarding program that integrates them into the team, introduces them to colleagues, and provides a clear understanding of company culture.
• Embrace Recognition & Appreciation: Celebrate individual and team achievements. Virtual shout-outs in team channels, public recognition programs, and even (e-)gift cards can go a long way in boosting morale and fostering a sense of belonging.

Fostering Teamwork & Collaboration: Working Together, Even When Apart

• Virtual Collaboration Tools: Invest in tools that support seamless collaboration, from project management platforms to real-time document editing software.
• Embrace Asynchronous Communication: Remote teams often operate across time zones. Leverage asynchronous communication by documenting decisions, progress reports, and action items in a centralised location accessible to all.
• Meetings with Purpose: Prioritise effective video conferencing for meetings. Set clear agendas, encourage active participation, and designate time for team bonding beyond work topics.

Keeping the Spirit Alive: Fun & Connection

• Virtual Team Building Activities: Break the ice and build rapport with fun online activities like virtual escape rooms, trivia nights, or skill-sharing sessions. Consider regular "coffee breaks" or dedicated channels for casual conversation.
• Embrace Social Events (Even Virtually): Organise virtual game nights, talent shows, or online cooking classes. Encourage team members to participate and showcase their personalities.
• Encourage and support social activities: Help team members build relationships by encouraging regular virtual events. Host e-coffee events and get to know new people outside of business meetings.
• Invest in Employee Well-being: Remote work can lead to feelings of isolation. Offer virtual fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, or sponsor subscriptions to wellness apps. Remote employees deserve to feel supported and cared for.

Measuring Success & Continuous Improvement

• Regular Feedback: Gather feedback from your remote team through surveys, polls, or one-on-one meetings. This helps identify areas for improvement and ensures your culture is meeting everyone's needs.
• Embrace Transparency: Share results of employee feedback with your team and demonstrate a commitment to addressing concerns. This fosters a sense of trust and shared ownership of company culture.

Building an exceptional remote team culture takes dedication and continuous effort. By focusing on these key elements, you can bridge the distance and create a thriving remote team that feels connected, valued, and empowered to do their best work.