How can you build professional relationships with people in different locations?

1 Know your goals

Before you reach out to someone in a different location, ask yourself what you want to achieve from the relationship. Do you want to share information, seek advice, offer support, or collaborate on a task? Knowing your goals will help you tailor your approach and message to the person and the situation. It will also help you avoid wasting time or creating confusion by being clear and specific about what you need and what you can offer.

2 Choose the right channel

Depending on your goals, you may need to use different communication channels to build relationships with people in different locations. For example, if you want to introduce yourself or make a request, you may use email or chat. If you want to discuss a complex issue or brainstorm ideas, you may use video or phone calls. If you want to build rapport or show appreciation, you may use social media or cards. Choose the channel that best suits the purpose, the urgency, and the preference of the person you are contacting.

3 Be respectful and flexible

When you communicate with people in different locations, you need to be respectful and flexible about their time, culture, and style. For example, you may need to adjust your schedule to accommodate their working hours, avoid using jargon or slang that they may not understand, and adapt to their communication norms and expectations. You also need to be patient and empathetic if there are delays, misunderstandings, or conflicts. Remember that building relationships across distances requires more effort and sensitivity than face-to-face interactions.

4 Follow up and follow through

One of the keys to building trust and credibility with people in different locations is to follow up and follow through on your communication and commitments. For example, if you promise to send a report or a feedback, make sure you do it on time and with quality. If you receive a message or a request, acknowledge it and respond promptly. If you have a question or a concern, raise it and seek clarification. By following up and following through, you show that you are reliable, respectful, and interested in the relationship.

5 Seek feedback and improvement

Another way to strengthen your relationships with people in different locations is to seek feedback and improvement on your communication and collaboration. For example, you can ask for their opinions and suggestions on how to make your interactions more effective, efficient, and enjoyable. You can also share your own feedback and suggestions on how they can improve their communication and collaboration with you. By seeking feedback and improvement, you show that you are open, humble, and willing to learn and grow.

6 Manage your stress

Working with people in different locations can be stressful, especially if you have to deal with multiple time zones, cultures, and expectations. To manage your stress, you need to take care of your physical and mental health. For example, you can set boundaries and limits on your availability and workload, prioritize and delegate tasks, take breaks and rest, exercise and eat well, and seek support and help when needed. By managing your stress, you can improve your performance, well-being, and relationships.