Join Dr. Bobbi Wegner and Alexandra Erman as they explore the innovative strategies for building cohesion in global, distributed teams. Discover how a unique approach to trust, dual management, and real-time feedback can transform team dynamics and drive organizational success.

Alexandra Erman is a seasoned people officer with over 20 years of experience in startups and 15 years in the technology sector, focusing on SaaS and scaling companies. Currently, a leader at BforeAI, a virtual-first cybersecurity company, Alexandra is passionate about fostering team cohesion and connection within a global, distributed workforce. With a background in internal operations, where she managed people, finance, and administration, she chose to specialize in the people function, driven by the belief that it should be a core business strategy. Alexandra's approach emphasizes building strong team cultures, facilitating asynchronous communication, and creating psychological safety to empower diverse, cross-cultural teams. She is also actively involved in innovative management practices such as dual management and continuous performance management.

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Alexandra Erman emphasizes building cohesion in global teams by aligning them behind a compelling mission, central to their work in cybersecurity.
• Structured group norms and clear expectations for asynchronous work create a safe environment, balancing stability with creativity.
• The innovative use of "user manuals" helps employees understand team dynamics, fostering relationship-building and trust.
• The dual management approach separates personal development and technical guidance, enhancing individual growth and psychological safety.
• Continuous performance management and active development of psychological safety facilitate open communication and trust in the organization.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandraerman/

Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:

Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/

Personal Website: https://www.drbobbiwegner.com/

Harvard Faculty Page: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/directory/faculty/bobbi-wegner

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/