18 Mentor Module 2: Group Dynamics
Hey everyone! Welcome to the next module in the mentor training. In this module, we will be discussing group dynamics.
In today’s session we will start with time zone variations, the problems that arise and potential actions that can be taken to help groups that are facing an issue with time zones. Next, we will talk about navigating difficult situations in group settings as they tend to come up quite often and it is always good to be prepared in advance.
We’ll start off with time zone variations, specifically the identified problems. The biggest problem is that not everyone may be in the same time zone. Right away, there is a division within the group, even before a single word is said between them. This is the main theme that comes up in all time zone related problems, so even if it may not seem as that big of a problem right off the bat, once groups get going it can severely impact group dynamics. Time zone barriers can be the rift that prevents a team from having successful group dynamics. Between communication barriers, different work hours, having difficulty with collaboration, and lack of team building resources, group dynamics tend to take a hit. Successful groups must work in unison, so time zones create an issue there. Finally, there is not one key solution to reducing time zone related conflict. There are several “best practices”, but those may not be the solution for some teams. On the next slide, we will go through some good practices to equip yourself with so you can help your teams if they face any of these issues, but keep in mind that a final solution will look different to each group.
There is positive action you can take as a mentor to ensure your groups have a high success rate, even if they are facing time zone barriers. So the first point here is quite straight forward, I’m sure you’ve heard it 100 times whether it was from prior teammates, your significant other, or your boss but communication is KEY. It is important to take notice of individuals communication styles. Some people prefer to communicate through email, others video calls or even group text. By acknowledging and respecting everyone’s communication style, you are setting your group up to succeed, at least as far as talking to each other is concerned. A simple honest conversation can eliminate almost any problem, make sure you encourage your teams to share their style and to respect each other’s preferences.
Next, make it easy to collaborate. This can be a shared hard drive, a shared google drive, onedrive, dropbox or any platform that lets them share their work in progress. It can get frustrating waiting for others to send their updated work when it is your turn to work, so by having a system in place that allows all members in the group to access the documents at all times will ease a lot of unnecessary stress. Moving forward, you want to push organized meetings. A meeting can be the difference between high-quality and poor-qu