In a remote, cross-cultural setting, there's no such thing as too much communication. Asynchronous communication (docs, detailed messages) should be your default. Avoid ambiguity by ditching slang and idioms, and use visuals like screenshots or short screen recordings (Looms) to explain complex ideas. Establish clear channels for everything—use Slack for quick chats, but keep formal task-related conversations in your project management tool.

Vietnamese business culture often values harmony and can be more indirect than the typical US approach. A "yes" might mean "I understand what you're saying," not necessarily "I agree and will do it." Create a safe environment where team members feel comfortable asking questions or raising concerns. One-on-one meetings are often more effective for candid feedback than public forums.

Your documentation is your single source of truth. A well-maintained knowledge base (in tools like Notion or Confluence) is non-negotiable. Document project requirements, processes, meeting notes, and key decisions. This reduces ambiguity, empowers team members to work autonomously without waiting for answers, and makes onboarding new hires a breeze.

The ~12-hour time difference doesn't have to be a hurdle; it can be a superpower. Implement a "follow-the-sun" workflow where the US team can hand off work at the end of their day. Your Vietnamese colleagues can make progress while you sleep, creating a 24-hour development cycle. This requires crystal-clear hand-off procedures and a small, dedicated overlap window for real-time collaboration.

Don't let all interactions be about work. Strong teams are built on personal connections. Schedule regular, informal "virtual coffee chats" with no agenda other than to talk. Create a non-work Slack channel for sharing hobbies, photos, or interesting links. Celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries, and project milestones as a full team. This investment in rapport builds trust and makes collaboration feel natural.