Remote work has become the norm rather than the exception, and the way we build and maintain professional relationships has dramatically shifted. While technology has enabled us to collaborate across continents (had any one actually ever had a video call prior?), it has also presented new challenges in fostering the kind of deep, meaningful connections that drive team success. For professionals, understanding how to build relationships with colleagues you've never met in person is essential. Here are a few pointers on effective strategies to bridge the virtual gap and work on building strong, lasting relationships with your remote team.

The Role of Relationships in Team Success

Cliché inbound… ‘Strong professional relationships are the backbone of any successful team’. But it’s true. They foster trust, encourage collaboration, and boost morale. In a remote setting, these relationships become even more critical as they compensate for the lack of face-to-face interaction. When colleagues feel connected, they are more likely to communicate openly, share ideas, and support each other, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

Challenges Unique to Remote Relationships

However, building relationships in a remote environment comes with unique challenges. The absence of physical proximity can lead to feelings of isolation, misunderstandings, and a lack of team cohesion.The reliance on digital communication tools can sometimes strip away the nuances of in-person conversations, making it harder to convey tone, intent, or emotion. Overcoming these hurdles requires a proactive approach and a willingness to adapt.

Strategies for Building Relationships with Remote Colleagues

1. Regular Communication

Consistency is Key: Regular communication is the foundation of any strong relationship. Schedule frequent check-ins, whether through video calls, instant messaging, or emails, to ensure everyone stays connected. Always consider time differences if team members are in different countries, it's essential to establish a routine that accommodates all team members, and not to favour the majority.
Choosing the Right Communication Channels: Different situations call for different communication methods. Use video calls for more personal, in-depth discussions, instant messaging for quick updates, and emails for formal communications. The most popular tools are Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Slack, which can help streamline these interactions.

2. Active Listening and Empathy

Listening Beyond Words: Active listening is about more than just hearing words; it involves understanding the underlying emotions and concerns. In virtual meetings, pay close attention to body language, tone of voice, and pauses. Encourage colleagues to express themselves fully and acknowledge their contributions.
Practising Empathy: Remote work can be isolating, and colleagues may face challenges you're unaware of. Whether it's juggling childcare or coping with different time zones, practising empathy can help bridge the gap. Make an effort to understand your colleagues' situations and offer support where possible.

3. Personal Touches

Getting to Know Colleagues Personally: Building relationships isn't solely about work. Take the time to learn about your colleagues' hobbies, interests, and personal lives. Share a bit about yourself too. This can be as simple as starting meetings with a few minutes of casual conversation or setting up a dedicated chat channel for non-work-related discussions.
Celebrating Milestones Together: Recognise and celebrate milestones such as birthdays, work anniversaries, or professional achievements. This can be done through virtual cards, small gifts, or even a dedicated team video call to mark the occasion. These gestures go a long way in making a co-worker feel valued and appreciated.

4. Collaboration on Projects

Working Together on Meaningful Tasks: Collaboration is a powerful way to build relationships. Assign projects that require team members to work closely together, fostering a sense of shared purpose. This not only strengthens professional bonds but also enhances team cohesion and project outcomes. Every one loves a say!
Providing Constructive Feedback: Offering and receiving feedback is an integral part of any working relationship. Approach feedback with a positive, constructive tone, focusing on growth and improvement rather than criticism. This helps build trust and shows that you value your colleagues' contributions.

5. Leveraging Technology

Using Collaboration Tools Effectively: Make the most of collaboration tools like Trello, Asana, or Notion to keep projects on track and ensure everyone is aligned. Regularly update shared documents and encourage transparency in all communications.
Virtual Team-Building Activities: Team-building activities aren't just for the office. Organise virtual events like quizzes, online games, or virtual coffee breaks to bring the team together in a relaxed, informal setting. These activities can help break the ice and create a sense of camaraderie among team members. Who doesn’t like forced fun…

Common Challenges for a Remote Team

Time Zone Differences

Working across different time zones can make scheduling meetings and collaboration challenging. To address this, use tools like World Time Buddy to find overlapping hours that work for everyone. Be mindful of colleagues' working hours and try to rotate meeting times to share the burden of inconvenient scheduling.

Cultural Differences

Remote teams often comprise individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Understanding and respecting these differences is crucial for building strong relationships. Take the time to learn about your colleagues' cultures, customs, and communication styles. This not only shows respect but also helps prevent misunderstandings.

Communication Barriers

Language differences or varying communication styles can lead to misunderstandings. To overcome this, encourage clear, concise communication and ask for clarification when needed. Avoid jargon or idiomatic expressions that might not translate well across cultures. Where appropriate, consider offering language support or training to help bridge any communication gaps.

Building relationships with remote colleagues you've never met in person is challenging but entirely achievable. By prioritising regular communication, practising empathy, adding personal touches, collaborating effectively, and leveraging technology, you can build strong, lasting connections that transcend geographical boundaries. As remote work continues to grow in popularity, these skills will become increasingly valuable. Or, meet up at a coffee shop!

Recommended Read: "Remote: Office Not Required" by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson.
Tools and Platforms: Slack, Zoom, and Trello.

How to build relationships with co-workers you’ve never met