The Challenges of Global Teams: A Framework for Mitigating Social Distance
In today’s global economy, companies are increasingly relying on geographically dispersed workforces to gain a competitive edge. This trend has led to the formation of teams with diverse cultural backgrounds and local expertise. However, physical separation and cultural differences can create social distance – or a lack of emotional connection – that leads to misunderstandings and mistrust.
To help global team leaders manage effectively, a framework known as SPLIT offers guidance on how to mitigate social distance in global teams. This framework has five components:
- Structure: If a team is made up of groups with different views about their relative power, the leader should connect frequently with those who are farthest away and emphasize unity.
- Process: Meeting processes should allow for informal interactions that build empathy.
- Language: Everyone, regardless of language fluency, should be empowered to speak up.
- Identity: Team members must be active cultural learners and teachers to understand one another’s identity and avoid misinterpreting behaviors.
- Technology: When choosing between videoconferencing, e-mail, and other modes of communication, leaders should ask themselves if real-time conversation is desirable, if their message needs reinforcement, and if they are opting for the technology they want others to use.