Capturing Energy
One of the most important components of offshore development is the timezone crossover. It’s not just about what is most convenient for you. For example, with a team in India. The best time for you to meet might be 9AM PST. That’s going to be late for them. India is a former caste system. They’re never going to say no to your requests. If there’s a question afterwards they will of course stay on the call.
But what if you were to meet them early in their morning? That way you can bring them what you’re struggling with at the end of your workday—have them give it a fresh look and try get it resolved.
If you put yourself in their shoes you can drastically improve the chances of success.
Let’s say I came to you with a problem at 7AM. You’re already at your desk and ready to get started working for the day. There’s an abundance of energy to get the problem solved. Whereas if I came to you at 11PM with a problem. You’re just focused on discussing it long enough to not seem impolite. And putting subtle pressure to drop it until tomorrow.
Empathy is not only a tool for connection, it’s a business superpower.