Influence of Trust in Virtual Teams and Existing Communication Tools

Abstract

Purpose – Virtual teams are gaining prominence. Dependence on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are critical to building trust and improving the performance of these teams. This study explores the use of these technologies in relation to trust. Design/Methodology/Approach – This quantitative study utilised a 36-question survey developed to study correlation between a leader’s use of twelve specific ICTs and the leader’s level of trust in virtual teams. Findings – The findings showed a significant correlation between leadership trust in virtual teams and utilisation of existing ICTs. The findings also suggested a significant correlation between virtual team leadership trust and the leadership’s perception of ICT importance (Levin, 2018). Practical Implications – This study evaluated the link between trust and the utilisation of ICTs within a geographically dispersed organisation. Leaders need to go beyond previously used technologies and learn newer ones to drive team effectiveness (Levin, 2018). Learning to use ICTs can drive engagement, trust, knowledge sharing, and team effectiveness. Originality/Value – This study builds upon the existing information of how leadership trust and virtual team performance are affected by leveraging ICTs. Different ICT usage and frequence can build trust, improve knowledge sharing, and enhance performance (Levin, 2018).

Keywords: Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Virtual Teams, Trust, Leadership

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