🕰️ Understanding U.S.–Vietnam Time Differences

Note: The U.S. observes daylight savings time (DST) from March to November. Vietnam does not.

🧠 Mindset Shift: You're Not Working Late, You're Working Global

Remote work isn’t about a 9-to-5 clock—it’s about value and delivery. Many U.S. companies are open to flexible hours, as long as you're reliable and communicative.

• You don’t always need to work the full U.S. day
• You can often split your schedule
• You can negotiate core hours (e.g., 2–3 hours of overlap)

🛠️ 7 Practical Strategies to Work U.S. Hours from Vietnam

1. Negotiate Your Ideal Overlap Window

Most U.S. companies only require 2–4 hours of real-time collaboration.

💡 Tip: State your preferred working hours clearly during the interview process.

📧 Time Zone Negotiation Email Template
Subject: Proposed Working Hours (Vietnam–U.S. Overlap)

Hi [Hiring Manager],
I'm excited about the opportunity to work with your team. Given the Vietnam–U.S. time difference, I’d like to propose a schedule that ensures 3–4 hours of daily overlap for live collaboration while allowing me to stay productive and well-rested.

I suggest 9 PM–1 AM Vietnam time (7 AM–11 AM PST) as our overlap window. I’m flexible and open to your needs, and happy to discuss further!

Best regards,
[Your Name]
      

2. Use Split Shifts to Avoid Burnout

Example schedule:

• 9 AM–1 PM (VN): Deep work
• Nap or break during afternoon
• 9 PM–1 AM (VN): Team meetings + check-ins

3. Master Async Communication

Tools: Loom, Slack, ClickUp, Notion. Rule: Always leave updates your U.S. team can wake up to.

4. Automate Your Workflow

Set up reminders, timezone-adjusted calendars, and Slack schedulers.

5. Create a Night-Shift Friendly Environment

Warm lighting, noise-canceling headphones, healthy snacks, proper bedtime ritual.

6. Take Care of Your Health

• Pomodoro Technique (25/5)
• Stretch hourly
• Walk in daylight hours
• Nap before second shift

🚫 Avoid These Common Pitfalls

• Trying to mirror full U.S. hours without breaks
• Skipping sunshine or exercise
• Letting night work interfere with family/social life
• Staying isolated

7. Join Communities of Other Remote Workers

Connect with other Vietnamese remote professionals on Facebook, Discord, and LinkedIn.

📅 Sample Schedules

👨‍💻 Web Developer (PST agency)
8 AM–12 PM (VN): Code, review tasks
9 PM–12 AM (VN): Team meetings

📊 Data Analyst (EST SaaS company)
10 AM–2 PM (VN): Analysis & reporting
9 PM–12 AM (VN): Present insights

🤖 AI Prompt Engineer (Async team)
9 AM–12 PM (VN): Prompt design
2 PM–3 PM (VN): Nap
9 PM–11 PM (VN): Slack updates

🔑 Keys to Long-Term Success

• ✅ Set boundaries with family/friends
• ✅ Track energy levels
• ✅ Communicate clearly
• ✅ Prioritize deep work
• ✅ Take mental health seriously