How To Build a Strong Work Culture For Your Remote Team
A guide to help you structure your org in building a strong work culture for you overseas team
When companies think about hiring overseas or building remote teams, one of the first questions that pops us is: “How do we make sure these people feel like part of our team”?.
It’s a real fear.
Your biggest worry would be whether these employees, miles away across different time zones, will feel connected, motivated and committed to doing the job and also be a part of that mission.
It’s easy to think of remote teams as “outsiders”, especially those overseas. But that kind of thinking leads to disengagement, poor morale and ultimately high turn over.
But, it doesn’t have to be this way.
Done right, building a strong work culture for your overseas team can have massive benefits for your business. It can boost productivity and worker satisfaction, but it can also reduce turnover, improve collaboration, and create a unified team that feels aligned – even when you’re thousands of miles apart.
If you’re preparing to build out your remote team, you should definitely check out our other posts on:
Let’s go.
The Benefits of a Strong Remote Culture
Let’s focus on the upside for a moment on what a strong remote work culture could look like.
Building a strong culture across borders isn’t just about making everyone feel warm and fuzzy (although that’s important too!)
Here’s why it matters:
Increased loyalty and retention – when remote workers feel like they’re part of the team, they usually stick around. They want to feel engaged and included i.e. all-hands, team-meeting, company retreats etc. They’re less likely to jump ship for another job because they feel connected to something bigger than just a paycheck.
Higher productivity – engaged and happy employees tend to be more productive. A strong culture helps your remote team stay motivated, even when they’re working independently. It also means you’re building and instilling trust with them knowing they can get the job done with minimal supervision.
Stronger Collaboration – when you create a culture where everyone feels like they belong, communication and collaboration improve. Teams are more likely to reach out, share ideas, and work together across time zones.
Global Perspective – a remote overseas team brings diversity in thought, culture, and experience. This can lead to more innovative ideas and solutions, especially when they feel empowered to share their perspectives. Again, this goes back to making them feel included and part of something.
All of this takes a bit of work and it doesn’t happen overnight.
But with some structure and foundation, you can get there.
Tips on Building Work Culture
How do you actually build this culture across borders?
Start with Clear Values
Every strong culture begins with clear values – what does your company stand for? What behaviors, expectations and attitudes do you want to see in your team? These values should apply to everyone, whether they’re in the office or based remotely from another country.
But you can’t simply write them on your website and call it a day. Live them out in everything you do – especially in how you treat and engage with your remote team.
Over-communicate (and them Some)
- Holding regular check-ins and meetings (but don’t be micromanaging)
- Using clear and transparent communication tools like Slack
- Encouraging remote workers to share updates, ask questions and provide feedback
Incorporate them into the Bigger picture
Too many companies make the mistake of treating their remote workers like hired hands who just complete tasks. Instead, help them see the bigger picture – how do their contributions tie into the company’s overall mission.
Keep them updated on major company goals, wins and challenges so they feel involved and important. They should feel as invested in the company’s success as your in-house team.
Foster Personal Connections
Remote workers miss out water-cooler chats and lunch breaks with co-workers, which often can be the foundation on which personal relationships are formed. You can create something similar, virtually.
- Encourage casual conversations via Slack
- Host virtual team-building events or coffee breaks
- Don’t be afraid to show your human side and ask about their lives outside of work – it can build trust and connection
Recognize and Celebrate Their Wins
Celebrate their achievements publicly during team meetings or in company-wide emails.
A simply shoutout goes a long way in making remote employees feel valued. You can also send them small rewards or tokens of appreciation.
Offer Growth and Learning Opportunities
To keep your remote team motivated and engaged, show them you care about their professional development. Offer opportunities for learning, upskilling, and growth. Whether it’s through online course, certifications, or mentorship programs, remote employees should fee like they have the same opportunities to grow as those the core team.
Be Culturally Aware
There’s a good chance your remote team come from different cultures. Be culturally sensitive and aware. Understand their holidays, traditions, and work habits.
Takeways
Building a strong culture for your remote overseas teams isn’t just about keeping them happy – it’s about creating an environment where everyone, no matter where they are, feels like they belong and can contribute meaningfully.
- Start with clear values that everyone can understand and rally behind
- Overcommunicate to keep your team connected and informed
- Incorporate them into the big picture so they feel invested in your company’s mission
- Foster personal connections to build trust and camraderie
- Celebrate their wins to make them feel valued and recognized
- Offer growth opportunities so they they can continue to develop professionally
- Be culturally aware of differences
Connect with Guild
We specialize in connecting companies likes yours to build and manage high-performing remote teams.
Let’s chat about how we can help you build a culture that keeps your remote team engaged and productive. You can reach out to us by filling our inquiry form or book a call with us today.