If you are like many young people nowadays, you may have tried looking for a job or a project through online connections. And if you have been fortunate enough to obtain a good and reputable deal, it is possible that you will work closely with someone you have never met. While it is always a good idea to try to meet anyone that you work with in person, it is not always logistically possible. So, how can you maximize and develop this new if not surreal relationship? Following are some ideas:
Understand cultural differences. If the person you work with lives halfway around the world, then it is obvious that his work ethic or cultural upbringing is likely to be different from yours. Try to see the work in question from his perspective. For example, if he requires you to meet up in Skype by 10am New York time, make sure that you do what is necessary to be there on time. Not all foreigners understand the concept of Filipino time.
Document your agreement. Whatever it is that you agree on (whether by phone or email), make sure to formally summarize the points or terms of reference so as to avoid any future misunderstanding. For example, if the person has outlined his needs to you, it would be a good idea to reply back and confirm everything he said just to make sure that you are on the same boat.
Be responsive. Since the relationship is online, it is often hard to read non-verbal insinuations or tendencies. It is also easy to assume things that may not even be there. To avoid misunderstanding, always respond as promptly as possible. Don’t wait for two weeks to answer email. The person on the other end may be following a different timetable than yours. Treat him as a prized customer and he will likely get you for more projects.
Go beyond expectation. If the person asks you to submit a document by next month, strive to deliver earlier than expected. Do anything to make their work a little easier and chances are, they will do the same for you.
Choose the right partners. Work should be a partnership so it is important to find the right persons or institutions to work with. Be aware that spam or scams abound in the Internet world. Therefore, a good dose of research and common sense should be used in picking the right projects. Many people have experiences of never getting paid, for example. You will eliminate a lot of headaches for yourself if you choose projects wisely.
Do your own investigation, ask around and get recommendations from trusted people. In the end, there is no use nurturing an online work relationship if it was bogus to begin with.