How can you build trust with remote or hybrid colleagues who you rarely see in person?

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

Communication is the key to building trust with anyone, but especially with remote or hybrid colleagues who may feel isolated or out of the loop. Make sure you communicate clearly and frequently with them, using the appropriate channels and tools. For example, use video calls for more personal and complex discussions, chat or email for quick updates and feedback, and shared documents or platforms for collaboration and transparency. Don't rely on one mode of communication, and don't assume that your messages are always understood. Check in regularly, clarify expectations, and confirm understanding.

2 Show respect and appreciation

Respect and appreciation are essential for building trust with remote or hybrid colleagues, as they demonstrate that you value their contributions and perspectives. Respect means acknowledging their expertise, listening to their opinions, and giving them autonomy and flexibility. Appreciation means expressing gratitude, recognition, and praise for their work and achievements, and celebrating their milestones and successes. Don't take them for granted, and don't forget to say thank you.

3 Be reliable and accountable

Trust is built on consistency and dependability, so you need to be reliable and accountable when working with remote or hybrid colleagues. This means delivering on your promises, meeting your deadlines, and following through on your commitments. It also means being honest, transparent, and constructive when you encounter problems, challenges, or mistakes. Don't make excuses, don't blame others, and don't hide information. Instead, take responsibility, apologize, and offer solutions.

4 Build rapport and connection

Trust is also built on personal and emotional connection, so you need to build rapport and connection with your remote or hybrid colleagues. This means showing interest in their lives, hobbies, and passions, and sharing some of your own. It also means creating opportunities for informal and social interactions, such as virtual coffee breaks, happy hours, or games. Don't limit your conversations to work-related topics, and don't ignore their personal needs and preferences.

5 Seek feedback and input

Trust is enhanced by mutual learning and growth, so you need to seek feedback and input from your remote or hybrid colleagues. This means asking for their opinions, suggestions, and insights on your work, projects, and goals. It also means giving them constructive and supportive feedback on theirs, and helping them improve and develop their skills and knowledge. Don't assume that you know everything, and don't be defensive or dismissive. Instead, be curious, open-minded, and humble.

6 Respect boundaries and differences

Trust is maintained by mutual respect and understanding, so you need to respect boundaries and differences when working with remote or hybrid colleagues. This means being mindful of their time zones, schedules, and availability, and not expecting them to be online or responsive at all times. It also means being aware of their cultural, linguistic, and personal backgrounds, and not imposing your own norms or preferences on them. Don't make assumptions, don't judge, and don't stereotype. Instead, be flexible, adaptable, and respectful.