I need some advice. I am running a project currently that involves a number of different parties that are spread internationally and is quite complex but my issues with this project seem to fall internally.
The main problem is that the team do not speak at all. They sit in silence in meetings and even with a set agenda it is like pulling teeth in order to get them to talk. Some team members make decisions and I find out about them accidentally. It is something that I have never experienced before and I am not sure where to start with solving this. I have tried speaking to individuals on a 1:1 basis, via email, phone, in team meetings etc but I am not succeeding in building relationships.
Carlos A ReyesSenior Project Manager| HexawareEscobedo, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
Culture is the key, it happen to me when working with international teams. It also happens when working with your conationals and they are spread out over the country. South is always different that North.
Play the game of understating your coworker’s culture. Role playing like if you were a citizen/resident of your involved co-workers and you will realize that they might not feel comfortable on many general Project management practices or standard project basic communications. In some cultures they don’t stick to or follow up an agenda, talk directly with them about any project expectations. The sooner you bring the issues to the table the better results you will get.
Buena Suerte Amigo
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Diane OhdeIT Project Manager| AZ Department of TransportationGoodyear, Az, United States
Hello,
Are you creating frequent status reports to Upper Mgmt? It is a good tool to show off the accomplishments of your team. Most people like to get recognized for their efforts. This may open the door for communication. Always ask the team if they are encountering any barriers and do everything in your power to help remove the barrier so the team will see you as an asset. Once you start removing barriers, you will automatically start building the relationships.
Good Luck.
Diane Saving Changes...
Anonymous
Hello,
I just came out of a somewhat similar situation. I lead a system upgrade team that did great on communication but there was a sub-project for archtecture redesign where this type of situation occurred. We would meet weekly and the meeting literally lasted 5-10 minutes because absolutely no one would say more than generalities like "Yes, No, I don't know". It was very frustrating to me and after numerous discussions with my supervisor I was able to get the meeting attendees changed. Once the new group began to meet, discussions began.
I don't know your situation but I would think your problem is the same one I had -- strong distrust and/or dislike of one or more persons in the room. At the end of the day, you're responsible for the project so I'd try to get to the heart of the matter. If they won't talk to you, see if they will talk with their supervisor, etc who will talk to you.
