With my job, I get to connect with people from all around the world. And, I’m happy that my favorite brother is the one that travels to meet everyone in person, and I communicate by email and phone/Skype. I certainly prefer it that way — and I know that’s how he prefers it as well. I’ve found that one thing always mentioned during my conversations with clients and potential clients is the weather.
I admit, when an email begins with something like “Hello from Stockholm!”, it’s exciting — and I wonder if “Hello from Indiana, USA” has the same effect when the person receiving the email is in Abu Dhabi or Rotterdam or anyplace far away. I always do a bit of research on the organizations represented by those I’m communicating with, but I’ve also learned a ton about the countries they represent as well. And time zones…
I always try to be respectful as it pertains to the time of others. I’m not likely to call a doctor at home in the evening if I’m sick, or my attorney (who may be a relative or a friend) after hours if it’s about a business matter. And, I’ve found that most everyone from other countries are extremely respectful and attentive to time zone challenges as well. I’ve also found that Americans who reside in a time zone different from me could care less if they wait until 7:00 PM EST to call and demand something from me ASAP, and I’m not really sure why that is.
No one with a healthy life can work 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM (or later) Monday through Friday. It doesn’t matter when you send an email, but please be respectful of others if you’re making demands of them based on a schedule that is within YOUR time zone, without first checking what time it is for them.
