Flexibility in Remote Work: A Journey Across Timezones
Remote Worker's Spotlight: Gabby Beckford, Travel & Lifestyle Influencer @packslight
Hey Superstar!
Close your eyes for a moment and visualize: it’s morning, and you are at your desk, going through your mail. While it's dawn here in Nigeria, your colleagues in New York are wrapping up the previous day, and in Sydney, it’s the middle of the night. This isn't a scene from a sci-fi novel; this is the life of a remote worker—living on a global clock where timezones are more than just numbers. They are experiences, stories, and above all, opportunities.
That’s the beauty of Flexibility and time zones.
Exciting, right? Remember the times when all we knew was the traditional 9-to-5 schedule? Today, remote work has not just broken those chains but reshaped them into bridges. These bridges bring global talents together and foster relationships that defy geographical boundaries. Now, I understand that differing timezones can have their downsides, evoking memories of bleary-eyed conference calls at 2 a.m. But consider the advantages: With a global team spread across various time zones, your business could be running 24/7. As one team logs off, another logs on, ensuring a continuous flow of creativity and output. Moreover, collaborating with colleagues from different corners of the globe enriches our projects with diverse cultural perspectives, fueling innovation and leading to broader, more inclusive outcomes.
How to Work Remotely with Teams from Different Timezones
Working remotely with teams across diverse time zones can be both thrilling and challenging. While it introduces you to varied skills and perspectives, it also demands meticulous coordination to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Understand the Timezones: Acquaint yourself with your team's geographical distribution. Utilize tools like WorldTimeBuddy or Every Time Zone for clarity. A visual chart showcasing each member's location and active hours can be a game-changer.
Effective Communication: Embrace platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Trello that champion asynchronous communication. Set clear expectations about response times to alleviate stress, and send out a weekly roundup to keep everyone informed.
Schedule Wisely: Pinpoint common hours that work for most of the team for synchronous activities. If such windows are limited, consider rotating meeting slots to distribute the inconvenience fairly. Always record sessions for those who can't attend in real time.
Cultivate an Inclusive Culture: Relish the cultural richness that comes with diverse time zones and always respect your peers' local schedules. Midnight for you could be breakfast time for another.
Leverage Collaborative Tools: Platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 facilitate simultaneous collaboration. For task management, tools like Asana, Monday.com, or Jira can be invaluable.
Set Clear Boundaries: Advocate for 'Do Not Disturb' periods to uphold work-life balance. Also, refrain from reaching out during someone's downtime, unless it's critical.
Regular Check-Ins: Periodic one-on-ones can mitigate timezone-centric hurdles, and it's beneficial to establish a continuous feedback mechanism.
Thorough Training and Onboarding: For remote-centric organizations, it's pivotal to furnish newbies with the right tools and enlighten them about timezone challenges. A centralized resource hub can facilitate easier access to essential documents and guides.
Prioritize Flexibility: For such organizations, granting flexible working hours can be a boon. If someone puts in extra hours outside their usual schedule, ensure they're compensated.
Promote Team Building: Organize virtual social events accommodating most time zones. If logistics allow, annual or bi-annual team meetups can work wonders for team cohesion.
In conclusion, the dance of remote work across time zones is a delicate balance of structure and adaptability, which is why it’s important to cherish the flexibility it provides. Because in this vast world of shifting hours, it's the moments of connection and creativity that stand out.
Remote Worker Segment
From Scholarships to Soaring Skies: Introducing Gabby Beckford, Travel Content Creator, Gen Z Marketing consultant, TEDx speaker, Opportunity Expert, and Founder of Packs Light. Navigating the dynamic world of travel as an influencer and solo digital nomad, Gabby seamlessly merges her prowess in Gen Z marketing with her passion for unearthing and seizing opportunities. From winning an astounding $20,000 in scholarship, allowing her to immerse herself in the culture of Dubai, to now gracing the stages as a TEDx speaker, Gabby's journey is nothing short of inspirational. By the age when most people are just beginning to explore the world, Gabby has already set foot in her 31st country and is sharing her insights through Packs Light.
With features in illustrious publications such as The New York Times, Good Morning America, CNN, and Travel+Leisure, Gabby stands as a beacon of hope for young women, eager to explore the world. Her mission is to empower women to seek risk, seize opportunity, and see the world.
Read more as we delve into the remarkable remote work journey of Gabby Beckford and her thoughts on the transformative power of travel, marketing as a Gen Z, and insights into embracing risks and opportunities. Also, don’t miss out on the special travel opportunity.
Resources to Help in Your Remote Career Journey
Our Slack community: This is a community built to connect with job seekers and digital nomads around the world. We have monthly free training, resources, and a helpline. Also, you get to make friends with other members. Link
Our job board: The Inclusively Remote job board is tailored to ensure everyone worldwide gets equal opportunities, especially Africans. We have jobs that are inclusive for Africans. Link
Our Social Media Handles: For daily tips on navigating your remote work career or tips to corporate success, check out our social media handles here Link
Introduction to Remote Work: Access our free ebook on remote work and how to get remote jobs, especially other platforms to check out. Link
The ABC of a Successful Remote Job Application: Access our free ebook on how to tailor your resume and apply to remote jobs. I have tailored a resume template you can use and cold mail messages in drafting your cover letter. Link
The Remote Salary Handbook: This is the first published guide on remote work. Having been a remote worker from Africa, I know the struggles of getting good pay, I have been paid less countless times. This ebook lays down tips as well as templates to ensure no one gets to be like me. It’s currently on sale and would go a long way in your career journey. Link
Other Remote Work Resources
How to Achieve Consistent Growth in the Remote Work Era (Free E-book)
4 Reasons Why Your Remote Team Would Benefit From Extra Workplace Empathy
Yours Truly,
Mary-Esther Anele (Your Career Cheerleader)