Remember, what you are used to is not necessarily the right way. You might wish for things to be done a certain way according to what you’re accustomed to.

But deeming one way right and another wrong is a sure-fire means of limiting your company’s growth and rejecting the various perspectives that could indeed provide you with another angle or approach to doing business. Acknowledging and supporting differences leads to improved teamwork, which in turn creates better business outcomes.

Systems, communication, and protocols – make sure everything is shared online and everyone has access to relevant documents. It’s frustratingly inconvenient for an employee when they do not have the necessary information to complete a task during their workday, while it’s 4am your time.

Some workflow software options include YouTrack, Workflowy, and Asana. Whatever you choose, be it Google Docs or anything else, make sure the status of tasks and projects is obvious to all.

Consider implementing a buddy system between the two teams. Hopefully, there’s at least a half-day time zone overlap. This is a great system to build confidence, collaboration, and communication.

Also, having a go-to person for the offshore workers is vital when issues or questions arise. Don’t let queries go unanswered in the email void. Additionally, this process increases the accountability and responsibility of your offshore team.

As mentioned, it pays to sidestep the dreaded email void. To help with this, don’t rely on email as the only means of contact with your offshorers. Set up a group chat, WhatsApp group message, or whatever platform has the capacity to enhance communication.

However, be respectful of respective time zones when communicating, particularly where instant messaging is concerned.

The blend between onshore and offshore teams is not like a standard office where you can get a feel for what does and doesn’t work in order to drive the best outcomes. Structured meetings aid productivity and workflow. They ensure all staff are up-to-speed with tasks and deadlines and help to build culture and manage expectations on both ends.

Also, this is where brainstorming and ideas are often nurtured. Your offshore team may have some great ideas but if not given the appropriate platform or a full understanding of what’s happening in your business, these ideas will remain dormant and your business unchanged. Overall, encouraging open and honest dialogue between your two offices with regularity helps to create one, happy workplace. Are you new to the idea of offshoring? This article detailing 10 Things to Know before Hiring your Offshore Team is full of handy hints.

At Hunt & Hawk, we are experts when it comes to blending your onshore and offshore teams to create a united and highly-functioning workplace.

To find out more, contact us at hello@huntandhawk.com or book a meeting to chat. For more marketing, branding, and sales tips and insights and plenty else, check out more of our blog.