How can you resolve conflicts in advertising across different time zones?

1 Communicate clearly and regularly

One of the most important factors in avoiding and resolving conflicts is communication. Make sure you establish clear and regular communication channels with your clients and colleagues, using tools like email, phone, video calls, or chat apps. Set up a communication plan that specifies the frequency, format, and purpose of your interactions, and stick to it. Use a shared calendar to schedule meetings and deadlines, and confirm them in advance. Avoid using jargon, slang, or idioms that might confuse or offend someone from a different culture or background. Be respectful, polite, and professional in your tone and language.

4 Seek feedback and input

A fourth factor in minimizing and resolving conflicts is seeking feedback and input. Make sure you solicit and provide feedback and input from and to your clients and colleagues, using tools like surveys, polls, or reviews. Use feedback and input to improve your work, performance, and relationships, and to address any issues or concerns. Be constructive, specific, and timely in your feedback and input, and avoid being defensive, vague, or rude. Be receptive, attentive, and respectful of the feedback and input you receive, and acknowledge and appreciate it. Use feedback and input to build trust, rapport, and collaboration.

5 Resolve conflicts constructively

A fifth factor in resolving conflicts is resolving them constructively. Make sure you identify and address any conflicts that arise as soon as possible, before they escalate or affect your work or relationships. Use a structured process to resolve conflicts, such as defining the problem, listening to each other, exploring options, agreeing on a solution, and following up. Use tools like mediation, arbitration, or negotiation to facilitate the resolution process, if needed. Use a positive, cooperative, and solution-oriented attitude, and avoid blaming, criticizing, or attacking. Use conflict as an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve.

6 Celebrate successes and achievements

A sixth factor in resolving conflicts is celebrating successes and achievements. Make sure you recognize and celebrate the successes and achievements of your clients and colleagues, as well as your own, using tools like rewards, recognition, or appreciation. Use successes and achievements to reinforce your work, performance, and relationships, and to motivate and inspire yourself and others. Be generous, sincere, and enthusiastic in your praise and appreciation, and avoid being stingy, insincere, or indifferent. Be proud, happy, and grateful for the successes and achievements you share with your clients and colleagues, and celebrate them together.

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?