Agree on one channel, one feedback window each day and clear deadlines in both time zones. A time gap can give you overnight turnarounds.
A time difference can slow a project, or speed it up. It depends on how you set it up.
Make the gap work for you
When you send feedback at the end of your day, the editor can work on it while you sleep. You start the next day with a new version.
Set up the basics
- Pick one channel. Email, Slack or a marketplace's messages. Avoid switching between them.
- Share your working hours and the time zone for each deadline. Write deadlines as date, time and zone, for example "Friday 5 pm New York time."
- Agree on reply times. For example, a reply within one working day.
- Plan one short call at the start to align on the brief, at a time that suits both sides.
Keep feedback tidy
Send all comments in one message. Use timestamps from the video. Review tools that let you comment directly on the video help, but a simple list works too.
Avoid common problems
- Sending feedback in many small messages
- Unclear deadlines
- Expecting an instant reply outside working hours
What India's time looks like
India Standard Time is UTC+5:30. For a US-based client that means the editor's day starts in the late evening and runs through the night, which is why overnight turnarounds are common. I explain more in hiring a video editor from India.
Plan for review points
Add buffer days around reviews and holidays in both countries. Want to see how this works with me? Send a message and I'll share my usual hours and reply times.
A sample weekly rhythm
- Monday (your morning): Send the brief and materials.
- Tuesday: First draft arrives while you were offline.
- Tuesday (your afternoon): Send one list of feedback.
- Wednesday: Revised version arrives.
- Thursday: Final check and approvals.
That rhythm turns a time gap into extra working hours on your project.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Booking calls at hours that suit only one side
- Not saying which holidays are coming up
- Using several channels at once
Frequently asked questions
Do we need live calls?
Usually one at the start is enough. After that, written feedback with timestamps works well.
What if something is urgent?
Say so clearly in the message and agree beforehand on how to reach each other for urgent items.
How do I handle deadlines?
Write them with date, time and time zone. Add a buffer day for review.
What are your working hours?
I'm based in Rajkot, India. Send your time zone in the project form and I'll suggest a schedule.
Bhavesh Vaghela
Freelance video editor and motion designer in Rajkot, India. I make short-form videos, motion graphics, SaaS explainers, logo animations and AI video for clients worldwide.
