Expert reveals: How to work together in global teams

Working from anywhere brings challenges: “As a company, you have to be aware of what a globally distributed team entails, for example different time zones, working hours, holidays and cultures and life models,” says Cogill. “That’s why it’s important to communicate your own working hours transparently and to respect those of others.”

Keep an eye on time zones

If, in exceptional cases, it does not work to take every individual need into account, you should at least keep an eye on the different time zones: If you set up a meeting in Berlin at 11 a.m., for example, you should know that it is 11 p.m. in New Zealand at that time is – and in California 2 a.m. (Also read: Why professional experience is overrated)

Time zone tools for meetings help to avoid such bad planning . They show the different time zones of the participants in parallel and make it easier to find a time for a conference that interferes as little as possible with the everyday life of the participants around the world.

Set up the workplace ergonomically

People who don’t work in the office need a workplace at home where they feel comfortable. An adjustable office chair that matches the desk, which ideally is also adjustable, prevents back pain and other ailments. Equipment such as a mouse, screen or keyboard should also meet your own needs. (Also interesting: Managing finances: 10 rules, according to Harvard, how to handle your money properly)

Anyone who saves here will not be able to do their work to the full in the long run. Businesses can support well-being by providing tools or money. Cogill reports that mmhmm, for example, pays employees a monthly bonus of $800 that they can use without proof for anything that helps them do their job in the best possible way, such as home office equipment or membership in a gym or coworking space.

Use the right tools and nurture relationships

When team members work from anywhere, it also takes clear rules and responsibilities: who does what – and by when? If this is not clear, tasks are left undone or done twice. Appropriate tools help to make the collaboration effective. Ideally, the team members can also state when they can be reached and, for example, note that they are currently in a meeting or are on a lunch break. (Also worth reading: