Virtual meetings don't allow for the same hallway conversations or break time chatting that allows us to get to know each other. Nor do they allow for the same visual clues that give us a level of comfort when working with someone we don't know. Groups that work virtually need to plan time in the meetings to build relationships.

One way to do this is to talk about topics not directly related to work but interesting to members. The Shell Chemicals Value Network - a virtual team with members in Houston, London, Singapore, the Netherlands and Boston - started meetings with a personal check-in question. An example is "Who was your favorite teacher and why?" People got to know a little more about each other and create connections without being face-to-face.

At Sun Microsystems, Margaret Schroeder's customer service strategy team consists of people from five different countries. They often start a meeting discussing what is happening in each country to learn more about each other and other cultures. "We happened to be meeting during the first reports of the Sept. 11 tragedy, and had a chance to view it from the perspective of each of the countries. It was a very moving experience."

	Tip 6: Leverage technology
	Tip 4: Facilitate for participation
	Back to beginning of article