Running Distributed Teams Intentionally

Over the last several years, I have worked with leadership teams spread across cities, countries, and time zones. One book I continue to recommend often is Running Remote by Liam Martin and Rob Rawson.

Even with the rapid shift toward hybrid and remote work, it is still one of the best books out there on how to effectively run a business across time zones, countries, and distributed teams.

What I appreciate most about the book is that it approaches distributed operationally, not emotionally. It does not romanticize flexibility or treat remote work as simply a perk. Instead, it focuses on the systems, communication rhythms, leadership behaviours, and accountability structures required to make distributed teams truly effective.

One of the biggest takeaways for me was the importance of intentionality. Strong distributed cultures do not happen accidentally. Leaders need to create clarity around communication, decision making, documentation, priorities, and expectations. Without that structure, teams drift quickly.

The book also reinforces something I see consistently in growing organizations. High performing distributed teams are built on trust, outcomes, and rhythm, not constant oversight. The best leaders create alignment without creating bottlenecks.

At OPTIV, many of the leadership teams we support operate across multiple geographies and schedules. Running Remote remains one of the most practical and actionable resources I have found for helping leaders scale communication, build culture, and lead effectively in modern distributed environments.

Remote work is no longer a temporary adjustment. For many organizations, it is simply how business now gets done. This book provides a thoughtful blueprint for doing it well.