- Virtual Work

Every month Mariposa Leadership, Inc. chooses a particular leadership concept or theme to focus on. Currently, we are focusing on Virtual Work.  In today’s rapidly changing , global, business world the use of virtual teams and virtual communication are becoming increasingly more common.  Advances in technology have brought about drastic and exciting changes in how are now able to both communicate and work.  What was once a novelty, then a trend, is now a business reality. 

Virtual work is here to stay.  In today’s global business world if you’re not thinking virtually, you’re not dealing with the current reality.  More and more businesses and organizations are embracing the use of virtual teams and virtual communication.  All of this virtuality brings new challenges for leaders, employees, and organizations.   Sue Bethanis, Mariposa Leadership CEO and author of Leadership Chronicles of a Corporate Sage, offers this advice to leaders of virtual teams.  

  1. Don’t just communicate…OVERcommunicate!  Create communication channels that are clearly defined, and well maintained.  Effective communication is the key to success.   
  2. Focus on trust.  Connect with your co-workers.  While it’s not physically possible to “break-bread” all the time with virtual team members, keep the concept alive through interactions and conversations.  And when you start a project, do get on a plane, have a meal, and get to know each other.
  3. To be or not to be… virtual.  Don’t assume things are going to plan; when there is a problem, determine if you need to jump on a plane or solve it via phone. 
  4. Master technology.  Possess all necessary video/teleconference set-ups and devices; meetings must be clear, on-time and technologically frustration free.

It no longer matters whether you’re 3 or 3000 miles away from the office.  It only matters that you get the job done.  Work virtually and you’ll create options for getting the job done that are virtually endless.

We’d like to hear what you have to say about this.  Leave a comment, ask a question, or share some of your experiences.  

   

3 comments so far

  1. M-LOG on July 12, 2006

    This month’s Wise Talk teleconference is “To Be or Not To Be…Virtual.”

    Sue’s guest this month is Dave Ancel, Ed.D. Dave is the Founder and co-managing partner of Emergent Solutions, Inc. He has extensive international business experience in strategic planning, leadership and organizational change, and creating innovative workplace environments. Dave has particular interest in developing systems that promote collaboration in both physical and virtual environments.

    Dave and Sue will be discussing the benefits and challenges that businesses and employees experience when working virtually. In particular, they will be taking a closer look at the unique role leaders must play in successfully implementing virtual work in their businesses and organizations. Please join them for what will surely be a lively and thought provoking conversation.

    For more information concerning the July 27th teleconference, please contact Regan at regan@mariposaleadership.com

    Cheers!

  2. M-LOG on July 17, 2006

    The ability for individuals and teams to work virtually has rapidly changed our business landscape. Old and outdated hierarchies and structures no longer apply. Leadership exclusively through command and control is simply no longer possible. Today’s leaders must quickly learn how to adapt their leadership styles to match the ever-changing landscape.

  3. M-LOG on July 28, 2006

    We hope that you enjoyed our FREE Wise Talk teleconference this month on “To Be or Not To Be…Virtual”, with special guest Dave Ancel.

    If you were unable to attend for any reason…fear not! We’ll have the conversation available on our website starting August 3rd. Just visit our website at http://www.mariposaleadership.com and click on the Wise Talk link.

    Our next Wise Talk teleconference will focus on “Stress Free High Performance”, with special guest Mark Thornton.  Mark is the former Vice President and Chief Operation Officer for JPMorgan Private Bank in London, and is the world’s first executive meditation coach.  A student and practitioner of meditation for over 20 years, Mark has worked with over 30 teachers in 7 countries to find the best techniques for super busy people.  He is the Project Coordinator for The Global Health Institute as well as author of  Meditation in a New York Minute: Super Calm for the Super Busy. 

    If you’re interested in listening to their conversation LIVE, just contact Regan Bach at regan@mariposaleadership.com or call 415.621.6055 We look forward to hearing from you!

    The Mariposa Team


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