How do you manage your outsourced team when they're countries apart? We'll take a look at how you should maintain your relationship with an overseas teams and how we could relate it to a long-distance relationship. How do we keep our work relationship healthy, and how we can improve productivity for everyone? More info on this episode.
Hello there! Adam here, calling you across the line from Outsource HQ, the podcast headquarters for end-to-end outsourcing services.
When you think about it, outsourcing is like a long-distance relationship.
You promise to withstand anything that comes your way when your partner is beside you. But what if they’re miles away, or worse countries apart, and what if your time zones don’t align?
Long-distance relationships, or LDRs for short, are not easy. There’s the anxiety. The disconnect. You check up on them every now and then, facetime or call them on the phone for updates, and by the end of the day - overthink.
But 60% of LDR lasts. And they have higher levels of satisfaction, commitment, and trust after challenging distance.
Wait - our podcast isn’t about love advice but this is about long-distance relationships: and outsourcing is one. And like LDRs, it has a high success rate. So let's get into it.
First, Save the dates.
Create a sense of closeness with your outsourced partner. Using the platforms you like best, save the dates for hangouts or regular meetings. Manage your expectations by scheduling reasonable deadlines and setting up alignments and projected milestones. Your outsourced team is also more productive when there's clear expectations.
When you do meetings, you’re building a relationship and setting boundaries simultaneously. Choose a time that is good for everyone. You don’t want your partner asking for facetime during a rush period at work. The same applies to your outsourcing partner - make sure both sides understand when you will catch up and when work is expected to be completed.
Second, Overcommunicate
Talk, talk, and talk. Keep track of their activities and progress for connectivity and engagement. Create a communication rhythm with virtual tools.
Third, Get on the same page
Your relationship is bound to succeed when you and your outsourcing partner are on the same page on important things.
Make a checklist.
If you want to ingrain something from your company culture, Do some team building and see how they work virtually. Be detailed so your outsourced partner can easily understand you.
Fourth, Assure they’re taken care of
You can be distances apart but you’re virtually connected. Show your gratitude whenever your outsourced team did a great job. An appreciation email or positive reviews makes their day better.
Harmonize your on-site and outsourced team.
Your outsourced team is your business partner. Make your relationship stronger by acknowledging their purpose.
Lastly, Be motivational support
Whether it's you or an in-house team leader, be present in the life of your outsourced team.
Rest assured they will cater to your every preference from communication tools to project management tools. Respect the knowledge they can bring to the table. Recognize their achievements and reward them for their efforts.
Long-distance relationships are manageable. Communicate and communicate. It all starts and ends with communication. The geographic distance is never an issue when you and your outsourced partner are respectful and open to one another.
Thanks for listening! In the next one, we’ll be looking through the eyes of the hardworking outsourced team members that we all know and love. See you then!