This is the age of Virtual Teams.
Using Video conferencing, Skype, Chats , Teleconferencing
have become the norm in most of the Global Organizations. In fact these are
promoted as they save time and money and can be as effective as face-to-face
meetings – if used correctly.
Of course Ground Rules
have to be set . Things like No
multitasking, having a fixed meeting agenda,
starting and ending on time, respect for
diverse culture have to be
followed.
But even after taking care of
all the factors, the main disadvantage or if I may say the lacunae of virtual
teaming is the lack of personal touch.
We miss out on the important aspects of the body language – the smile on the lips, the
tweak of the cheeks and the hurt in the eyes.
I attend and conduct several
video conferences and have to join teleconferences almost everyday and I have
found out that if you can make “His Dog the Team’s Dog”, a lot of barriers of the lack of personal
touch is broken.
Let me elaborate.
One day, while attending the teleconference, Tim’s dog started howling. The people in the teleconference went silent
for a few seconds and then the conference continued as if nothing had happened.
Just after concluding the meeting , before the “Byes” , Susan asked Tim “Hope
your Dog is OK ....".
And this started the
conversation around Tim’s Dog. Almost
everyone quipped in and this went on for about 5-7 minutes.
But these five minutes
were the Golden Minutes.
The team shared thoughts about their pets , gave tips
and a very personal bridge was made between the team members.
In the next meeting, the first question asked was “Tim, How is
your Dog ? “
His Dog was now the team’s
Dog !
So, do not be ashamed
if you are attending a teleconference or a video conference from your home and
your door bell rings. And neither should
you feel awkward if you hear someone’s
baby crying.
In fact, take advantage of such instances and create a
personal bond.
Try it !
