Challenges in transforming a multicultural local-only company to a remote-first | Felipe Furlan

Transforming a multicultural company to remote-first requires effective communication, cultural awareness, and a playbook for navigating challenges, emphasizing transparency, open communication, and adaptability.

Key takeaways
  • Felipe Furlan’s challenges in transforming a multicultural local-only company to a remote-first company are rooted in corporate culture and the need for effective communication.
  • Recognize that everyone comes from different cultural backgrounds and may not be familiar with the company’s culture; this needs to be taken into consideration.
  • Manage by wandering around: be available to understand and communicate with team members, understanding the different work styles and needs.
  • Communication is key: provide instant feedback, both positive and negative, to team members and executives.
  • Be transparent: keep team members informed of company decisions and plans, helping to avoid fear and uncertainty.
  • Recognize and respect cultural differences, such as time zones and work habits.
  • A remote playbook is essential in navigating the challenges of a remote-first company.
  • Over-communicate: make sure team members have the information they need to succeed, even if it’s not always perfect.
  • Be aware that people are different, and it’s okay if something doesn’t work out.
  • Encourage open communication and tolerate mistakes, as they are natural and necessary for growth.
  • Provide tools and training to help team members succeed.
  • Transparency and a willingness to adapt to different cultural norms and work styles are crucial for success in a remote-first company.
  • Change is an opportunity, not a threat: use it to improve and grow.