Hey there, global remote team! 👋

Managing time zones can be a pain point for remote teams, especially when located across continents. But don’t worry - with a little preparation and effort, it’s possible to efficiently work alongside colleagues located in different time zones.

In this blog, we’ll provide tips for managing time zones to ensure your global remote team is working productively and harmoniously.

1. Schedule overlaps

One way to overcome time zone differences is to schedule overlapping hours where all team members are present at the same time. This way, you can collaborate, discuss and solve issues in real-time.

To achieve this, first identify the time frames in which all team members are available. Then, mark these as shared working hours. Make sure to schedule important team activities and meetings in these slots.

A clock indicating overlapping hours between two time zones.

2. Be transparent

It’s important to establish trust and transparency when working across different time zones. This means communicating what you’re working on, sharing progress updates, and being available for colleagues as much as possible during working hours.

Also, maintain a shared work calendar so everyone is aware of what their colleagues are doing at any given time.

A shared calendar being accessed by team members in different parts of the world.

3. Use the right tools

There are tons of tools available for remote teams to work together productively. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Slack make it easy to collaborate and communicate.

Use tools like time zone converters to ensure everyone is on the same page time-wise. Many software applications have built-in allowances for time zones, but it’s always better to double-check.

A graphic of various collaboration tools being used by remote workers.

4. Respect personal time

When collaborating across different time zones, it’s easy to forget about your team member’s non-working hours. It’s important to respect their personal time and not disrupt them during off-hours.

Establish clear communication guidelines, like not expecting a response outside of agreed-upon working hours.

A person sleeping with a "Do Not Disturb" sign on a door handle.

5. Be accommodating

It’s important to understand that certain team members may need to adjust their schedules to fit within the overlapping hours. Be accommodating to their needs where possible and understand that it’s a give and take situation.

Consider the needs of all team members and make compromises if possible.

A person in one time zone moving their work hours to better align with those in another time zone.

Wrapping up

Managing time zones in global remote teams can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. The key is open communication and collaboration, respecting each other’s personal time, and using the right tools to make it easier.

We hope these tips help your global team work better together, no matter where you’re located! ✌️

A team of global remote workers smiling and working together productively.