Leading a remote design team is not that different from leading a design team. Here are some key elements to keep in mind:
Ask your people how they’re feeling and over-communicate to stay closely connected (e.g. regular check-ins and meetings) ❤️
Set and communicate clear expectations, goals, and objectives.
Trust your people; focus on results.
Listen to team members to spot unmet needs, serve, and support.
Over-communicate gratitude and praise.
Be receptive, empathic, and appreciative of different viewpoints.
Encourage collaboration and co-creation via digital tools (e.g. Miro).
If designers are distributed in cross-functional teams and lack collaboration with other designers, organize weekly design critiques, and use digital tools to encourage alignment, transparency, and feedback.
Provide opportunities for training and mentorship
Get to know team members personally; create fun remote bonding opportunities (e.g. a weekly dinner party via Zoom) 🎉
Ask for feedback, and make team members feel heard, valued 🗣