How to Manage a Globally Distributed Team

Today, more and more businesses are warming up to the concept of building globally distributed teams. However, one of the primary concerns that some organisations still have regarding offshoring their processes is security.

Decades of low-quality outsourcing and exaggerated horror stories about offshore security breaches have led to businesses questioning the security of their confidential data with their remote team. And therefore, to mitigate security risks and protect sensitive data, companies must know and implement fundamental cybersecurity measures when working with their teams — offshore or otherwise.

Remote work offers businesses significant advantages like access to a talent pool that isn't geographically limited, cost-effective operations, and the ability to scale at speed. However, building and managing a globally distributed team can be challenging if you don't implement the right hiring and remote work strategies.

Here are three tips that you can implement while building a globally distributed team in 2021:

1. Finding the right talent

When you're building a globally distributed team, there are several ways through which you can source talent. Hiring freelancers, offshoring your processes to a third-party vendor, or building a dedicated team are some of the more popular options.

Irrespective of the model you implement, ensure that you've established a strong hiring process — one that allows you to access the best talents in the industry that can contribute to the growth of your business. Utilize job listings, your extended network, social media, or even a recruitment agency to help you with this step.

2. Developing a remote work strategy

A comprehensive remote work strategy ensures that there are clear guidelines, policies, and plans regarding communication, engagement, culture, IT security, and performance. Presenting this strategy to your remote teamwill help them see the big picture and appreciate their contribution to the grand scheme of things. It also helps them understand how their products will be measured, how data will be shared, and which tools and processes to use.

3. Practicing effective communication

Maintaining effective communication when working with globally distributed teams can be a challenge. And that's why it's important to equip your team with all the tools they need to work efficiently.

Emails, instant messaging tools like Slack, and video conferencing tools like Zoom are some of the basic tools that you must use daily. And if you're working with teams across different time zones, it is best to incorporate asynchronous communication that allows team members to share information and collaborate despite their availability or schedule.

At The Scalers, we help innovative global businesses build highly talented software development teams in Bangalore — the second largest tech ecosystem in the world.