We’ve discussed the difficulty of virtual team building in the past. But how do you really get your colleagues to bond over thousands of miles and dozens of computer screens?

We all have stories about horrible bosses or incompetent managers. But have you ever wondered whether you actually happen to be one of them? You know … a manager that, even with the best of intentions, is somehow missing the leadership mark?

Virtual teams are no longer a rarity in the business world. I should know– I’ve been on numerous entirely virtual and blended virtual teams over my work life. With a projected 1.3 billion people working virtually over the next few years, according to the Harvard Business Journal, if you haven’t already been a part of a virtual team, chances are you will be soon. That’s why I talked to a number of professionals who work in and lead virtual teams, and asked them to share their best tips on making the most of this new way to work.

It’s easy to get bogged down in silos at work, with each employee isolated, working on their specific deliverables. This can leave your employees feeling disengaged and disconnected from your company’s mission, and their unique part in activating it. One effective way for reigniting your employees’ passion around the corporate mission, while getting them reacquainted with their colleagues, is to host some form of structured creative thinking activity.

When American football coaching legend Vince Lombardi described his philosophy on teamwork, he certainly knew what he was talking about. But he couldn’t have imagined that in the new millennium, people from all over the world would be able to collaborate without being in the same room!

Virtual teams require a solid foundation and regular support to be effective. We share 6 key factors to address to ensure your virtual teams are successful.

Need some office Valentine’s Day ideas? Here are a few of our favorite fun ways to show your team how much you love them.