Teamwork Communication Skills Are Essential With Virtual Teams

Virtual teams present their own communication challenges. You don't have access to body language to help you read the messages. You can't tell if they are paying attention. You can't even tell if they are still on the call during a teleconference. That's why teamwork communication skills are even more critical with virtual teams. What do I mean by the term 'teamwork communication skills'? I recently was on a call where they discussed a TOA, team operating agreement. Basically the TOA, which was agreed to among the team members, outlined the rules of how they would communicate. Each team determines what's important to them, and there is a process involved with the TOA.

While to me the TOA seems a bit formal, I understand its importance. It outlines how the team will communicate and can include everything from showing up for calls on time, to how the team deals with non-performance of team members, to what they consider respect and everything in between. Basically, how are the team members going to work effectively and communicate with each other?

To me teamwork communication skills are more than a set of rules or processes. It's your tone of voice, participating in the discussions, being prepared for the meetings and putting aside all your distractions (Blackberry, computer, cell phones) so you can be fully present. And communication skills with virtual teams matter not just on conference calls but all the time. You can't stop someone in the hall for a quick update or to ask a question. Popping in someone's office for help isn't an option. Well, you understand what I'm saying. Teamwork communication skills are always important, and with virtual teams they are essential for the success of the project and the team itself.

About this Author

Linda Finkle, CEO of INCEDO GROUP, works with innovative leaders around the world who understand that business needs a new organizational growth style. These innovative leaders know that powerful cross-functional communication is the highest priority and the strongest strategy for building organizational effectiveness. To find out more, visit: http://www.IncedoGroup.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Finkle