Communicating Tips for Virtual and CrossCultural Teams Top

Communicating Tips for Virtual and Cross-Cultural Teams

Top Challenges when Working on a Virtual Team: 94% say inability to read nonverbal cues 32% say this is very challenging 85% cited absence of collegiality 81% cited difficulties in establishing rapport and trust (according to an intercultural training consultancy, Hastings (2010)) Volvo Group Trucks Technology People Development, Michelle Madsen Feb 2012 2

Virtual work has been associated with lower productivity higher stress and turnover. (www. SHRM. org, 2007) Volvo Group Trucks Technology People Development, Michelle Madsen Feb 2012 3

When working virtually: Potential for clashes between work ethics and values from poor communication Risk of relying too much on technology and electronic information transfer. Communication among team members may be less frequent than co-located teams. Remember that not all countries/people learn english the same way. Volvo Group Trucks Technology People Development, Michelle Madsen Feb 2012 4

Tips: Sharpen listening skills Develop an international calendar to maintain awareness of holiday and vacation practices. Let others know when you don’t understand Clearly define team member responsibilities. Clarify message by paraphrasing back what was heard. Establish and maintain consistent and balanced communication. Focus fully on the conversation Touch base by phone frequently. Volvo Group Trucks Technology People Development, Michelle Madsen Feb 2012 5

Educate yourself: There are several books in our Volvo libraries to help provide… Insight about cultural differences, norm, and behaviors. Communicating across cultures. Specific cultures and histories of country locations of other Powertrain colleagues. Volvo Group Trucks Technology People Development, Michelle Madsen Feb 2012 6

Volvo Group Trucks Technology People Development, Michelle Madsen Feb 2012 7