Is Digital Harmony possible in our global team?
In today’s global marketplace, where many colleagues are spread across different time zones or working with international clients, finding Digital Harmony can be particularly challenging in a world of constant connection to the office. A mindful approach that considers both yourself, your local colleagues and those overseas will help create a team where projects move forward without staff burning out.
Work alone and hand over so you can rest and then receive the following morning
84% of employees feel overwhelmed by digital demands and so the reality of overload is true for most. For teams spread across time zones, embracing an asynchronous work culture can help. Here colleagues are encouraged, where possible, to work independently, keeping track of their progress and handing over to workmates in opposite time zones when their working day. This creates the chance for rest and means projects keep moving forward smoothly without the need for everyone to be online at the same time.
Take control of your schedule
Taking responsbility for ensuring you get the rest you need is so important when working with global colleagues. Having open conversations about work preferences and communication styles will help to build trust. By discussing realistic expectations for response times you will give yourself the chance to log off at the end of the day.
Do as I do not as I say
The leaders’ role in shaping how a global team behave cannot be underplayed. By sharing openly about how they handle their own workload,the challenges they encounter, and the methods the use to protect their own down time, leaders can inspire their teams to develop healthier digital habits and encourage team members to manage their schedules in ways that work best for them. To avoid creating an "always-on" environment, managers should be clear about availability expectations. Working towards a culture of open communication and trust helps the team feel confident when deciding how to manage their workload.
Is it important or urgent
Sometimes something urgent comes up when the decision-maker’s in bed at 3am and contacting them is unavoidable. However, with good planning and clear agreements, these situations should be rare. Urgent issues are best handled with a quick call rather than an email, which can interrupt team members outside of their working hours. This is a time when using the ‘do not disturb’ function on your phone if you are the leader trying to sleep is ideal. Set exceptions so a couple of colleagues on the other side of the globe can contact you in an emergency and go to bed without the disruption of device notifications.
Be smart in your inbox
When working in different time zones, avoid unnecessary CCs and limit email chatter, which is better suited for instant messaging. Use subject lines to indicate the urgency and required action timeline of emails. Instead of sending multiple messages, batch emails to address various points in one communication, reducing inbox clutter and helping colleagues manage their time more efficiently.
Manage Meetings Effectively
Meetings are a crucial way to build relationships and boost morale, especially for teams that rarely meet in person. Rotating meeting times to accommodate different time zones can ensure that no single group is consistently inconvenienced. It's also essential to evaluate whether everyone needs to attend each meeting. Sending updates through a designated colleague can be more efficient and respectful of everyone's time. Including an agenda with meeting invitations helps participants understand whether they need to attend or if they can catch up on the outcomes later.
Technology has made global collaboration easier than ever. By encouraging healthy digital habits, balancing independent and team work, and respecting each other’s personal time, teams can build strong connections and avoid burnout. Open conversations about managing time zones create a positive work environment, helping to reduce stress and boost productivity.