Developing trust in virtual teams

Abstract

Rapid globalization, advances in technology, flatter organizational structures, synergistic cooperation among firms, and a shift to knowledge work environments have led to the increasing use of virtual teams in organizations. Selecting, training, and socializing employees in virtual teamwork has therefore become an important human resource function. This article provides an overview of the research on trust in virtual teams, its importance, and how to overcome some challenges of trust development in virtual teams. Recommendations for virtual team developers and human resources professionals are presented. © 2011 International Society for Performance Improvement.