The content in our blog is based on personal experience. Everything we write about has already been tested in real projects. Through several case studies, we’ve discovered two key elements for effective remote communication: always explain your decisions thoroughly and never take things personally.

You won’t be understood the first time. And that’s okay

We’ve already written about communication in freelancing . First and foremost — choose a convenient format: a messenger that works for both parties, whether you prefer text or voice, regular calls or video meetings.

No matter how hard you try, remote communication will never fully replace in-person interaction. When you're physically near someone, it's easier to sense their mood. In a team, you notice motivations, habits, and personality. Good managers in some companies organize group calls a few times a week to help remote workers feel more connected and compensate for the lack of live interaction.

Sometimes junior professionals expect their ideas to be approved after just a couple of messages to the department head. For example, an SMM manager at a travel company wants to launch a YouTube travel vlog. Expectation: “Hi, I want to start a vlog.” “Okay, here’s the budget, go for it.” Reality: “Write a media plan, analyze the audience, estimate costs and potential profits.” And that’s totally normal.

“You don’t get it — I’m the one paying”

Conflicts can arise with both clients and teammates. It’s easier with teammates because you’re equals. But clients often act entitled simply because they’re paying.

A story from one of our SMM friends:

I woke up to 10 new messages in the work chat. The last one said: “You’ve become completely lazy, what kind of work is this?! Couldn’t even check it?!” The client mistook an automatic Facebook translation for my work. Some phrases and titles were poorly translated, just like Google Translate. I politely explained that Facebook auto-translates any post based on the user’s profile language — and that users can choose to hide the translation. I also asked to keep the conversation respectful. The reply? “You don’t understand — I pay money, and if something’s wrong, it’s your problem.”

It's better to walk away from clients like that. Experience shows that a lack of professional ethics leads to missed deadlines, poor recognition of your work, and delayed payments.

Be smarter — turn off your emotions

Whatever happens — respond calmly, with empathy. Try to understand the client’s or teammate’s goals and motivations. Then explain your position.

Working with teammates isn’t always easy either. Someone might write, “These colors look like they were chosen during an epileptic fit.” When things get snarky, it’s important to remember: no one’s trying to hurt you — people are different. They have different senses of humor, ethics, and boundaries. If something consistently bothers you, reflect on whether it happens frequently or only when you're tired. If it’s recurring — speak up, kindly and clearly: “I feel uncomfortable when this is said. Let’s try to keep it constructive and work as a team.”

It’s easier with teammates because nobody wants drama — everyone just wants to get things done and grow the project.

There’s no such thing as being offended

In business relationships, emotions have no place. Forget the idea of being “offended.” Your connection with clients and coworkers is formal. You’re here to do a project and get paid. The most unproductive, pointless thing you can do is take offense. Then the tension builds, you start ignoring messages or replying coldly, and you treat tasks from that person with indifference. The team begins to fall apart, and everyone suffers. That’s why it’s better to address uncomfortable moments immediately — for your own good and for the team’s.

In our online coaching program *Freelancer: The Big Game*, we teach you how to find respectful, intelligent clients who value your work. You’ll also learn how to make money remotely, build a strong portfolio, and grow your presence on social media.

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