How can you build a professional network when working in a different time zone?

1 Adjust your schedule

One of the first steps to building a professional network when working in a different time zone is to adjust your schedule to accommodate the time difference. This might mean waking up earlier, staying up later, or shifting your work hours to align with the peak times of your target network. Of course, you don't have to do this every day, but you should try to find a balance between your personal and professional needs and preferences. By adjusting your schedule, you can show your respect, interest, and availability to your network and increase your chances of having meaningful interactions.

3 Be proactive and responsive

A third tip to build a professional network when working in a different time zone is to be proactive and responsive in your communication and collaboration. This means that you should initiate contact, offer value, and follow up regularly with your network, as well as respond promptly and politely to their messages, requests, and feedback. By being proactive and responsive, you can demonstrate your interest, enthusiasm, and reliability to your network and build trust and rapport. You can also use automation tools, such as email schedulers, chatbots, and autoresponders, to help you manage your communication and collaboration more efficiently and effectively.

4 Join online communities

A fourth tip to build a professional network when working in a different time zone is to join online communities related to your field, industry, or interests. Online communities are groups of people who share common goals, challenges, or passions and interact online through various platforms and formats. By joining online communities, you can expand your network, learn from others, and contribute to the conversation. You can also participate in online events, such as webinars, workshops, and conferences, that offer opportunities to network with other professionals and experts in your field or industry.

5 Be respectful and empathetic

A fifth tip to build a professional network when working in a different time zone is to be respectful and empathetic of the cultural and personal differences that might exist between you and your network. This means that you should be aware of and sensitive to the norms, values, and expectations of your network and avoid making assumptions, judgments, or stereotypes. You should also be mindful of the challenges and inconveniences that working in a different time zone might cause to you and your network and express your appreciation, gratitude, and support. By being respectful and empathetic, you can foster a positive and respectful relationship with your network and overcome potential misunderstandings or conflicts.

6 Have fun and be yourself

A sixth and final tip to build a professional network when working in a different time zone is to have fun and be yourself. Networking is not only about exchanging information, ideas, and opportunities, but also about building genuine and authentic connections with other people. Therefore, you should try to have fun and be yourself when communicating and collaborating with your network and show your personality, humor, and passion. You can also share your personal stories, experiences, and hobbies with your network and learn more about theirs. By having fun and being yourself, you can create a memorable and enjoyable impression on your network and make them want to stay in touch with you.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?