How To Coach Your Team Virtually

As entrepreneurs, it’s important to acknowledge and adapt to business basics that are affected by this new virtual world we live in. Project Millennium Inc. believes that one of the foundations of success in any business is how you coach your team. Company culture, critical conversations, and daily communication all go hand in hand with coaching. Let’s dive in to how to pivot to an appropriate way of coaching.

Avoid dictating the medium

You may have a preference to have a certain conversation over video call, text messaging, or by phone call, but when coaching opportunities arise, it’s important that both parties are on the same page and can communicate effectively. It is up to you, as the leader in the office, to recognize a situation for what it is and choose the form of communication appropriately regardless of “what you think is easiest in the moment.”

Acknowledging that emails or text messages can dilute the emotion or intent behind each individual’s perception or point of view is the first step in this process. Video chat can help with visual context but also can be distracting if the internet connection is poor. Experiment with both phone calls and video chat to see what form works best with your team and getting your advice across.

Utilize screen share during video meetings

All learning styles for individuals are different, as we’ve learned here at Project Millennium Inc. By adapting to a more visual approach during meetings, it will help the message get across without confusion or frustration. This will also bring everyone together on the same page and can result in real-time collaboration on a document or project.

Instead of asking your team to download large files and hoping that they’re able to follow along, you can now control the presentation from your own computer and ensure the entire meeting is much more focused. Other benefits include boosting productivity in meetings, encouraging remote work, and allowing everyone to gain new technology skills.

Schedule a specific check-in date and time for follow up.

When you consider scheduling online appointments for one-on-ones or goal follow-ups, it creates a timeline for your remote team member. You can utilize appointment software through a specific app or Google Calendar. This eliminates back and forth emails or chats that can let the team member fall into a state of procrastination.

“A goal without a plan is just a dream.” -Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

It’s important as an entrepreneur to not let this happen with your team. You can teach your crew to stay in touch with their goals with something as simple as a 5–10 minute phone call each week, going over the timeline and if the plan needs adjustments. Encourage adjustment so all goals remain obtainable.

If you’re feeling frustrated in this new virtual world, take a step back and acknowledge that appropriate changes can be made to adapt and conquer. Here at Project Millennium Inc., we believe that a solution-oriented mindset is better than a problem-focused attitude. We hope these tips can help you patch any holes in your company culture and move forward to a better future!

Originally published at http://projectmillenniuminc.wordpress.com on August 22, 2020.