In today’s globalized world, more and more businesses are turning to offshore outsourcing as a cost-effective solution to fulfill their manpower needs. Hiring offshore workers from countries like India or the Philippines can provide numerous benefits, including reduced costs and access to a larger talent pool. However, managing an offshore team requires a different approach and understanding of their unique challenges. In this article, we will explore the key points and strategies for effectively managing an offshore team to ensure success.
Understanding the People
The first and most important thing to remember when working with an offshore team is that they are just like any other employee — they are people. They may be located in a different country, but they have skills, limitations, and aspirations just like anyone else. It is crucial not to view them as superhuman or expect them to possess a wide range of skills. Instead, focus on hiring for attitude and training them in specific skills that are relevant to their role. Lower your expectations but increase your training efforts to ensure they have the necessary skills to excel in their assigned tasks.
Documentation is Key
To empower your offshore team and facilitate effective communication, it is important to document everything. Often, verbal instructions can be misunderstood or forgotten, leading to errors or delays in work. By documenting processes and tasks, you provide a reliable resource for your team to refer back to whenever needed. Consider using tools like Loom to record instructional videos that can be easily shared and accessed by your team members. Store these videos in a centralized location, such as a Google Site, to ensure easy access and searchability.
Building Relationships and Trust
One of the biggest challenges of managing an offshore team is building trust and fostering a sense of camaraderie despite the physical distance. Regular communication and face-to-face interactions are key to establishing a strong working relationship. Schedule regular video meetings with your team members to discuss progress, address concerns, and simply get to know each other on a personal level. Seeing each other’s faces and engaging in casual conversations can help establish trust and create a sense of belonging within the team.
Overcoming Challenges
Managing an offshore team comes with its fair share of challenges. One such challenge is the fear of whether your team members are genuinely working or using the opportunity to slack off. To overcome this, it is essential to establish clear expectations and maintain regular communication. By setting achievable goals and tracking progress, you can ensure that work is being completed satisfactorily. Additionally, by investing in building relationships and trust with your team members, you can alleviate these concerns and create a positive work environment.
Long-term Engagement and Growth
When hiring offshore team members, it is important to view it as a long-term engagement. Building a stable, reliable team takes time, and investing in long-term relationships can yield great benefits for both parties involved. Express your commitment to working together for an extended period and emphasize the importance of mutual growth and support. With platforms like Zoom and Skype, staying connected and fostering meaningful relationships is easier than ever before.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing an offshore team requires a unique approach and understanding of the challenges involved. By hiring for attitude, documenting processes, building relationships, and fostering trust, you can establish a successful offshore team that contributes to your business’s growth and success. Remember, offshoring can be a rewarding experience when done right, so take the time to implement the strategies outlined in this article and reap the benefits of a global talent pool.
If you need further guidance or assistance in hiring and managing an offshore team, consider scheduling a Scale Session with an experienced professional. Apply for a session using the application form provided around this video, and get personalized advice and direction tailored to your specific needs.