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Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Evening: How Teamwork Has Changed

Paula BergerTechnical Publications

2Confidential Property of Schneider Electric

Session Description: Lecture

> People say that working on virtual or global teams is no different from working on teams with people in the same building. They are wrong. So how can you ensure that you are successful when working with (or managing) people you have never seen in person, people who are likely to be in different time zones and very different business environments? You need to recognize that the rules of teamwork and business etiquette have unquestionably changed, and your success depends on adapting to the new rules.

> This session explains the keys elements of a successful global or virtual team. We’ll look at the behaviors and approaches that work best, and how they can help you overcome communication issues that may arise. We’ll address practical issues like time zones, cultural differences, holidays, and language. We’ll consider some of the writing problems you may have to overcome. Finally, we’ll discuss how your personal work life can change when you are meeting with and managing people you’ve never met face-to-face.

3Confidential Property of Schneider Electric

How Global Teams are Different(including lots of examples)

> Attitude and expectations (towards work, authority, innovation…)> Communication issues> Physical environment> Etiquette (as basic as what name to use)> Culture> Corporate life (roles, hierarchies)> Education and background> Logistics – time zones, weekends, phone usage, much more> Language (including variations of English)> Different technical writing styles

4Confidential Property of Schneider Electric

How to Succeed in a Global Team(including lots of examples)

> Harness the power of “we” > Be flexible, adaptable, and accommodating> Look for teachable moments> Find learning opportunities for yourself> Never assume> Adopt a global point of view

5Confidential Property of Schneider Electric

Paula Berger

> Currently working on a global team and managing a team in India

> 35 years in communication> Managed global teams for 15 years> Ran a global standards group> Ran a technical communication company for 20

years> Traveled to 30+ countries for work> Former President STC (2006-07)> Former President Boston chapter (1989-90)