ABSTRACT
This chapter provides guidance regarding the effective coaching of global virtual teams (GVT) by synthesizing lessons learned from the team effectiveness and coaching literatures. It presents a foundation of knowledge by outlining the differences between GVTs and more traditional co-located teams. The chapter discusses a series of several best practices for overcoming the unique challenges of working with GVTs. It highlights several key GVT coaching challenges and establishes a series of best practices which have been derived from scientific team and coaching literature as well as sourcing subject matter experts who have experience in practical applications. Global virtual teams, also known as multinational and multicultural distributed teams, multinational groups, and transnational teams, work across boundaries to connect, collaborate, and communicate globally. Building interpersonal relationships is a key best practice for GVT coaches that can be facilitated through early face-to-face interactions, such as kickoff meetings, or periodic in-person coaching sessions during planning phases.
