VPN.com CEO Insight on Building Inclusivity in Remote Teams
In a recent feature in CEO Official Magazine, Michael Gargiulo, the CEO of VPN.com, delved into growing the sense of belonging among remote teams. As businesses worldwide are transitioning towards remote work setups, Gargiulo's insights come at a crucial time for leaders aiming to bring their teams together, despite physical distances.
The Evolution of Remote Work
The shift to remote work was previously seen as a temporary solution, but it has quickly become a staple in the modern workforce. As a fully remote company, Gargiulo's perspective is not just theoretical; his leadership experience at VPN.com provides practical examples of fostering a cohesive remote culture. He contends that in order for employees to thrive and contribute effectively from their various locations, a strong feeling of integration and belonging must be cultivated.
Trust: The Foundation of Remote Teams
Gargiulo insists that trust is the bedrock of effective remote teams. He states, "Leaders should foster an environment where flexibility is encouraged and open communication is a norm.” His extensive experience has shown him that when employees know they are trusted, their engagement levels rise significantly, leading to enhanced performance across the board. Regular check-ins and clear communication channels are vital components in this equation. Gargiulo practices these principles at VPN.com, leading to a workforce that operates with high levels of mutual respect and connection.
Strategies for Building Inclusivity
In the article, Gargiulo outlines several strategies that can significantly improve inclusivity within remote teams.
- - Regular Communication: Utilizing various communication tools to keep discussions flowing is essential. Gargiulo encourages leaders to institute structured check-ins and team meetings to create opportunities for open discussions. This ensures that everyone feels heard, regardless of their physical location.
- - Encouraging Feedback: Gathering insights from team members is crucial. Feedback mechanisms help the leadership gauge the mood of the team and adjust strategies accordingly. Gargiulo emphasizes the importance of transparent feedback in establishing trust among team members.
- - Celebrating Wins: Acknowledging both large and small successes fosters a sense of community. Gargiulo believes that recognizing accomplishments reinforces team spirit and motivates employees. These celebrations help employees feel valued in their contributions.
Building VPN.com's Remote Culture
VPN.com, under Gargiulo's guidance, has crafted a robust remote culture that rivals traditional office environments. His leadership style prioritizes creating a work atmosphere characterized by open dialogue. He highlights that employees should feel comfortable expressing their opinions and fears, knowing that their voices matter.