5 key tips for keeping diverse teams across borders united

I love bite-size advice! Everyone is moving fast and furious, and while I also love big, thick, deep-thinking literary efforts, sometimes it is the short, succinct, easy-to-digest morsels of advice that can have the biggest impact.

In managing global mobility, both Plus and our clients rely more and more on teams working in geographically dispersed locations. Global teams (both virtual and otherwise) can be a complex collection of personalities, skills, cultural values and work styles. It is important to consider how to support and manage these kinds of teams effectively, and in order to do that, it is critical to understand differences in communication styles and the impact culture has on the group.

In the book, "Managing Across Cultures: The 7 Keys To Doing Business With A Global Mindset" by Solomon & Schell, it is explained how underestimating cultural influence caused serious problems for organizations like DaimlerChrysler and Walmart.

According to this article by Aperian Global:

"To be most effective, especially during times of change, cross-border teams have to find mutually-agreeable ways to work together to meet common goals and overcome challenges."

In order to prevent misunderstanding, miscommunication, divisiveness, logistical issues and poor coordination, try tapping into these five key tips for keeping diverse teams across borders united:

1. Understand cultural and communication differences
2. Develop trust
3. Create personal connections
4. Overcome logistical challenges
5. Localize leadership

To successfully create and manage a dynamic, impactful cross-border team, and leverage their diverse perspectives and strengths, try these tips for fostering an environment that values consideration, understanding, flexibility and trust.