Navigating remote work across time zones: Benefits and drawbacks

Alessia and Ky, welcome back! Tell us a little about your journey abroad.

Alessia: During my time abroad in Australia, I experienced a significant time difference compared to Germany, with the maximum gap of 10 hours during the German winter. My motivation for working remotely was to gain more work experience abroad and to get some extra income.

Ky: I recently experienced the challenges and rewards of remote work across time zones firsthand while working from the West Coast in the United States of America while based in Berlin.

Australia and the United States, quite the distance from Berlin! What was your favorite aspect about working abroad?

Alessia: Working across different time zones allowed me to complete my tasks without interruptions. Often, I would receive tasks or briefings from colleagues during the night in Australia and work on them during the day, enabling my colleagues in Germany to have all the necessary information during their working hours. It felt like two gears seamlessly interlocking, working together to efficiently accomplish tasks and reach our goals. This arrangement felt incredibly productive to me.

What were some of the challenges of being abroad?

Ky: Balancing family time with work commitments proved to be the most significant challenge, given the 8-hour time difference between the West Coast USA and Berlin. To align with Berlin working hours, I opted to work from 1 AM to 10 AM USA time, leading to confusion, especially with my child, who couldn't understand my unconventional schedule.

Despite efforts to maintain a presence during active team hours, the double workload of completing tasks at the start of the USA workday took its toll. Sleep deprivation and strain on family dynamics outweighed the benefits of real-time interactions with the team.

For those looking to work abroad, what tips can you give them?

Alessia: Working across different time zones can be manageable for a certain period depending on the role one holds. Clear and concise briefings are crucial to ensure smooth workflow and prevent any hindrances or delays.

Ky: While remote work across time zones offers flexibility and opportunities for collaboration, it's essential to carefully consider the implications on personal well-being and family dynamics. My experience has highlighted the importance of balance and clear communication in navigating remote work effectively.

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