Hey there, fellow shared services warriors!
Ever found yourself in a room (or a Zoom call) thinking, “What’s the best way to lead this global team right now?”
You’re not alone in that struggle. The world of shared services is complex. Teams are spread across geographies, time zones, and cultures. You need to adjust your leadership style like a chameleon, adapting to each situation and team dynamic.
Let’s break down how to effectively navigate global teams through situational leadership strategies, ensuring everyone from associates to experts feels empowered and connected.
Understanding Situational Leadership
So, what’s this situational leadership buzz about? In simple terms, it’s adjusting your leadership approach based on the needs of your team and the task at hand. Think of it like changing your outfit according to the weather. There’s no one-size-fits-all here.
- Directing: Perfect when your team is inexperienced or grappling with a new process. Lead with clear, concise instructions and micromanage a bit until they get their footing.
- Coaching: Get in there! You’ve got rockstars but they need some guidance. Collaborate with them, offer feedback, and help build confidence.
- Supporting: Your team’s on it! They’re knowledgeable and just need support. Step back, listen, and empower them to take the reins.
- Delegating: Now, here’s where the magic happens. Your team is running the show! You trust them, they’re self-sufficient, and it’s all about providing a safety net without hovercrafting.
Real-World Application
Let me share a story. A few years back, I was leading a diverse team in Southeast Asia. We had members from five different countries, each bringing their unique flair to the table.
One week, a major project hit our plates without warning. Panic mode was about to set in. I tapped into the directing style first. I laid out clear expectations, timelines, and specific roles. As things began to flow and confidence grew, I shifted to a coaching approach—engaging my teammates with feedback and encouragement as they navigated through challenges.
Once they hit their rhythm, I transitioned to supporting and, finally, delegating. By the end of the project, I could step back and watch them shine. That’s situational leadership at its best!
Communication is Key
You might be thinking, “Sounds great, but how do I pull this off with members all over the globe?”
Here’s the secret sauce: communication. And I don’t mean just emails or group chats—go deeper. Use video calls to cultivate connection, embracing differences in time zones as teambuilding opportunities.
- Check-ins: Schedule regular one-on-ones or team huddles.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Take the time to learn about your team’s backgrounds. It’s not just a nicety—it enhances collaboration.
- Feedback Loops: Foster an environment where your team feels safe to voice concerns and suggestions.
Embracing Flexibility
This is where the rubber meets the road. Being a flexible leader is paramount. You won’t always have a playbook for every scenario. Trust your instincts; every day will present its own set of challenges.
Take a moment to reflect on your leadership style. Are you more inclined to direct, or do you lean toward delegating? Take a cue from your team’s needs and switch it up!
The Final Lap: Building Trust
Now, here’s my favorite part—building trust. A successful shared services team thrives on trust. By being authentic and transparent in your leadership approach, you’ll cultivate a sense of safety and openness.
When your team trusts you, they’ll be willing to take risks, share ideas, and drive innovation. That’s when the magic happens!
Your Road Ahead
Let’s summarize what we’ve chatted about:
- Master situational leadership tailored to your team’s unique conditions.
- Prioritize open and transparent communication.
- Remain flexible, adjusting your style as dynamics change.
- Build a trustworthy environment that encourages innovation and growth.
If you’re ready to take your shared services journey to the next level, you should check out THEGBSEDGE blog—it’s got a treasure trove of insights on shared services transformation, innovation, and leadership.
In the end, leading a global team isn’t just about tasks and deadlines. It’s about people. It’s about connection. Remember, the heartbeat of shared services lies in our ability to lead with situational awareness and humanity.
Keep pushing those boundaries!
Written by Vikrant Aglawe, a shared services expert with over 20 years of deep experience in the outsourcing and offshoring industry, who has set up and led multiple large-scale shared service centers for global organizations.
