In a world where distance seems to be an unbeatable obstacle for collaboration, two cities, Bogotá and Kuala Lumpur, demonstrate that it is possible to turn kilometers into synergies. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit our office in Kuala Lumpur and discovered that, despite the geographic distance, we share many similarities that can be advantaged to strengthen our young office in Colombia.
Discipline and Focus: An Asian Legacy
One of the first impressions I took away from Kuala Lumpur was the high discipline and focus at work. The dedication of Asian teams is remarkable, and although in Colombia we are not lacking in dedication, the guidance and attention to detail in Kuala Lumpur is admirable. This discipline is complemented by an openness and respect for cultural differences, essential in a nation enriched by Eastern migrations. This multicultural environment fosters tolerance and allows to bring out the best of each culture to create something wonderful together.
The Advantage of Time Differences
Contrary to what one might think, the difference in time zones between Bogotá and Kuala Lumpur has proven to be an unexpected advantage. Through operational discipline and good online collaboration habits, we have managed to maximize the benefits of this contrast. We strive to communicate actions taken and pending issues in detail, using multiple chat channels and collaborative platforms to ensure no uncertainties. This approach requires maintaining rigorous and up-to-date documentation, closing information gaps and improving long-term efficiency.
Additionally, we have implemented practices for a team to adjust its entry or exit time, facilitating efficient "handover" delivery. This strategy enhances connection and camaraderie between teams and allows for a smooth and systematic progression of projects, like the tale of the shoemaker's elves, where work continues to progress even when one of the teams has finished their day.
Personal Experiences and Learnings
Being adapted to working with a team in another time zone was initially challenging, but I quickly saw the advantages. Having support and continuity in projects even outside my working hours has been a great benefit. This experience has allowed me to meet and learn from wonderful people, broadening my worldview and strengthening professional relationships.
I hope that our team in Malaysia can also benefit from our unique qualities: the joy, spontaneity, and passion that characterize Colombians. These qualities, combined with our discipline and focus, can generate key differentiators to bestserve our clients and enrich our projects.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Bogotá and Kuala Lumpur demonstrates that physical distance is just a number. With technology, commitment, and cultural openness, we can overcome any barrier and create unparalleled opportunities for mutual growth. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of diversity and international collaboration to achieve common goals and make a positive impact in the world.
