Photo by Tim van der Kuip on Unsplash
The advent of the digital era has unlocked a wealth of opportunities for businesses worldwide. One of the most significant is the ability to hire from an international talent pool. This shift has seen companies embrace remote work, with statistics indicating that 26.7% of employees are now fully remote, enhancing their productivity and flexibility.
Businesses, too, benefit from substantial cost savings, eliminating the need for expansive offices and related amenities. This paradigm shift has been particularly advantageous in the IT sector, where the demand for skilled developers often outpaces local supply.
This article delves into the critical aspects of working with international developers, starting with the essential skills they should possess and moving on to best practices for hiring.
The Importance of Competency and Cultural Respect When Working With International Remote Talent
Developers should be proficient in at least one programming language, such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, or Ruby. They need to understand not just the syntax but the best practices, nuances, and relevant libraries or frameworks associated with these languages.
For example, a Python developer should be familiar with its use in data analysis and web development and understand libraries like NumPy, Pandas, and Django. Similarly, a JavaScript developer should know its application in front-end web development and be comfortable with frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue.js. All of the developers you work with have to possess an extensive skill set in the field of coding, so make sure you hire individuals that have dedicated their time to their calling and strive to learn more.
In addition to seeking technical proficiency, you must focus on fostering a sense of belonging and establishing effective communication with your remote team. This means that once you acquire them and establish a productive working relationship, showing respect and appreciation for their cultural background and language is imperative. If your team includes talent from the Philippines, for instance, you can find plenty of courses to learn Tagalog online, so you can demonstrate your respect for their culture and establish that their role within your team is valued.
Learning a new language doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Just as there are numerous online coding courses for developers, there are also plenty of free resources and apps available for language learning. These platforms often make learning fun and interactive, making it easier to acquire a new language. By going the extra mile and showing each employee that they are valued, you will find yourself only working with the best talent in the world and retaining them for years to come.
Adaptability
Given the dynamic nature of remote work and project needs, adaptability is a vital attribute. You need to instill a strong sense of adaptability so that developers can adjust their work approach, including working hours, schedule, and work pattern, to align with project needs.
It’s also critical to remember that while adaptability is necessary for developers, it’s equally important for you to provide the tools and support to enable that. For instance, implementing OKR (Objectives and Key Results) software can be a game-changer. In fact, OKR software can help both you and your developers manage business objectives and keep track of project milestones effectively.
This kind of software serves as a shared, unified platform where everyone can view and track progress toward goals, enhancing transparency and accountability. It allows your developers to understand how their work contributes to larger company objectives, which can boost motivation and engagement.
Photo by Ilya Pavlov on Unsplash
Build team cohesion
Fostering a sense of team cohesion can be a challenge when all of your top employees are miles away, but that does not mean that this part should be overlooked. Encouraging interaction and relationship building among team members can be accomplished through regular team meetings, both formal and informal, where team members can share not only work updates but also personal stories and experiences.
Virtual team-building activities, such as online games, shared movie nights, or collaborative brainstorming sessions, can also contribute significantly to forging bonds. In addition, recognizing and celebrating success, whether it’s the completion of a major project or an individual’s work anniversary, can strengthen the sense of belonging and appreciation within the team. So, don’t just be a boss; be a leader, and create a workspace in which you would want to work.
Legal and HR Considerations
Navigating the complexities of international legal and HR stipulations is a critical aspect of working with remote developers across the globe. Organizations must prioritize gaining a thorough understanding of international labor laws and regulations to maintain compliance and ensure equitable treatment of all personnel. This includes being mindful of country-specific stipulations regarding work hours, statutory holidays, and crucial matters such as data protection rights.
Furthermore, the intricacies of managing payments in diverse countries and currencies present another significant area of focus. It is essential for organizations to explore and adopt efficient global payroll services or digital payment platforms that facilitate seamless and timely transactions.
It is advisable to delve into rigorous research and legal consultation to verify that all operations align with the legal mandates of the countries involved, thereby upholding the legitimacy and integrity of your business practices.
Conclusion
In today’s interconnected world, harnessing the skills and expertise of international remote developers is a powerful strategy for businesses. This method of operation requires a balanced focus on technical proficiency, cultural respect, adaptability, team cohesion, and adherence to international legal and HR norms.
By nurturing these facets, organizations can build a productive, inclusive, and legally compliant remote work environment. The journey may present its own unique set of challenges, but with the right approach and continual learning, businesses can unlock remarkable potential and foster enduring relationships with a global talent pool.
