First introduced in the 1970s, telecommuting has since gained widespread acceptance, especially in the 2010s when it became mainstream. This has proven to be highly advantageous, with Works employees saving both time and money by being able to complete their work from the comfort of their own homes. In the present day, many organisations recognise the pivotal importance of enabling remote work in a world where being physically present in an office could pose significant health risks.
Transitioning to a home office need not be daunting, especially since many professionals only require a computer or other electronic devices to carry out their work. Therefore, transitioning to remote work is nothing more than a change of location. Freelancers who previously spent a considerable amount of time travelling for work have welcomed the opportunity to work from home, as it has allowed them to remain productive while avoiding the expense and time commitment of travel.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Work
Although remote work is a relatively recent phenomenon, it is already generating significant buzz and hype about its potential to revolutionize the world of work. There are two categories of effects this shift is expected to create – short-term consequences that manifest soon after implementation (within days of switching to remote work), and long-term implications that may take several months to become apparent.
Transitioning to remote work has undoubtedly boosted productivity for many professionals. Nevertheless, the suddenness of this shift during the pandemic has resulted in several possible drawbacks such as higher risks of security breaches and operational challenges due to inadequate preparation.
Remote work can potentially have long-term health benefits for office workers by reducing their exposure to both indoor and outdoor air pollution, while fostering a culture of open communication and shared responsibility can help curtail staff turnover. Nevertheless, the lack of direct oversight and evaluation by management can hamper the opportunities for individual employees to advance and enhance their productivity levels.
It is worth noting that the concept of remote work is still relatively new, and that the theories surrounding it are not necessarily set in stone. Therefore, when considering a remote work role, it is vital to assess individual preferences and priorities in making the final decision.
Roles Exclusively Suited for Remote Work
A job that necessitates face-to-face interaction with clients or customers and cannot be carried out remotely is unlikely to be classified as a remote work position. Medical professionals, for instance, are often referred to as essential ‘frontline’ workers. However, there is a vast array of opportunities for remote work in various industries, including:
Finance
As customers increasingly opt for the convenience of online banking services and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) over traditional brick-and-mortar branches, the banking industry is gaining greater traction in its digital revolution. This translates to a wide spectrum of responsibilities for bank employees, such as maintaining websites and servers, bolstering cybersecurity, and handling traditional accounting and bookkeeping functions. This trend greatly opens up prospects for technical professionals to work remotely in the banking sector, alongside the conventional roles of bankers and managers.
Engineering
Despite what you may imagine, as a qualified engineer, you need not always work in a garage or similar physical environments. Thanks to the advent of advanced CAD software, mechanical engineers can now seamlessly work remotely, while those in senior positions may spend more time using computers than machinery. Hence, if you are seeking to explore alternative or remote work setups, the field of engineering is an excellent option.
Development
Developers comprise a small but indispensable part of the workforce of this industry. As such, it is crucial to ponder the feasibility of remote work for developers. For app and software developers, the majority of applications are crafted for personal computers, rendering remote work an optimal solution. Nonetheless, due to the necessity of testing, proprietary software, and resources, there may be certain circumstances where working in the office is unavoidable. When it comes to video game designers, solely working from home is unlikely, primarily due to the immense technical demands involved in addition to the industry’s infamously rigorous ‘crunch’ culture.
Design
Graphic design is a profession that values both technical expertise and creative flair. With the right tools, networks, and skills, it is entirely feasible to build a successful freelance career from home. However, to make the most of the opportunities in this sector, it can be advantageous to team up with established companies. Additionally, since there are many shared aspects with allied fields, graphic design presents itself as a highly attractive option for remote work.
Instructional
The adage “those who can’t do, teach” is misguided, as possessing a comprehensive understanding of a subject and the ability to explain it lucidly and succinctly is an immensely valuable skill. Skilled technical writers who possess both technical knowledge and the proficiency to present complex ideas in a comprehensible manner on a screen are not easy to come by. As a result, those exploring freelance or part-time remote work opportunities in the technical field may discover that crafting instructional and tutorial material is a lucrative option. It is a highly sought-after skill, and reputable providers often charge substantial fees for it.
Consultational
For seasoned freelancers seeking to enhance their team’s abilities, consultancy work can prove to be a promising option. The eligibility criteria for this role resemble those of instructional positions, yet with increased emphasis on practical industry experience. To sum up, achieving success in the realm of online teaching necessitates a solid grasp of both theoretical and practical knowledge. By contrast, online consulting jobs typically require a stronger background in theoretical concepts, coupled with practical implementation proficiency.
Key Requisites for Remote Work
If you are seeking greater remote work prospects, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the usual expectations of a remote work setup, which may comprise:
Conference Spaces
- The expenses of operating a business can be substantial, and remote work has emerged as a viable alternative for many. Maintaining a concentrated work environment can become challenging when working in a distracting setting such as a kitchen table or couch. Unfavourable environmental conditions like poor lighting, ineffective heating or cooling, coupled with excessive clutter can further disrupt productivity. It is hence not surprising that many high-earning white-collar employees would opt to work from home, had they been given the option prior to the quarantine.
- Despite financial limitations, it is feasible to establish a suitable workspace in a spare room. Innovative thinking can help you fulfil the conditions stated here, as well as those addressed in the subsequent section.
Home Office Setup: - Once you have set up your home office, you may require hardware suitable for your job position. Typically, a standard desktop or business-grade laptop should suffice for most office-oriented tasks. However, for software engineers and other professionals, hardware specifications that exceed those of a standard business device may be necessary.
Computer Networking:- A Wi-Fi router serves as a network component that is distinct from the rest of a household’s system. To establish a productive home office configuration for remote work, it is imperative to have a dependable and steady network signal. Additionally, it is prudent to have alternative devices that can access different signal sources, such as a mobile phone.
Additional Workplace Resources:
- Furthermore, the tools and applications required for a given remote work position may vary. Various professions demand specific tools and resources to ensure effective and efficient performance of their responsibilities.
Work Hours:
- It is oftentimes suggested that remote workers adhere to a consistent schedule. This implies adhering to standard work hours and break times, even when working from home. Calendars and task lists can be valuable tools to remain organized, but it’s important to exercise self-discipline and adaptability to ensure sustained productivity and manage unforeseen communication interruptions.
Differing Opinions among Employees and Managers Regarding Remote Work
When it comes to telecommuting and other remote work arrangements in conventional businesses, employees and executive management often hold opposing perspectives. While inertia can sometimes be a factor, there are various rational and irrational reasons that can hinder businesses from adopting new operating methods.
Workers may have varying preferences when it comes to their work setup. Even after restrictions ease, many individuals may choose to continue working remotely due to its benefits. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that employers may not be receptive to such requests and it’s necessary to maintain a courteous demeanour and abide by any attendance policies in place.
For managers and colleagues with comparable positions, the allocation and efficient management of tasks is heavily reliant on a work environment in which individuals are present at their designated workspaces as opposed to working remotely. Regrettably, there is a tendency among managers in the workplace to give more importance to input instead of output. This can result in a negative perception of those who choose to work from home, even though they are still regarded as remote employees.
Organizations have made substantial investments in their physical infrastructure, such as new office spaces, resulting in a potential sunk-cost-fallacy that can hinder them from supporting remote work. Despite the financial benefits of not having to maintain lighting and ventilation in the workplace, many businesses are reluctant to transition.
Frequently Asked Questions to Job Applicants Interested in Remote Work
Numerous organizations now provide options for remote work, but may not be aware of the inquiries that should be made to evaluate whether potential job applicants are suitable for this type of arrangement. Some questions to consider include, but are not limited to:
- Candidates’ motivations for pursuing remote work opportunities.
- Previous work experience suitable for remote job positions (including projects).
- Kindly share details of any previous experience working within a globally dispersed team.
- If you’re interested in remote work, what technical skills (including software) are necessary?
- When working remotely, what steps do you take to avoid getting distracted?
- Can you list some benefits and drawbacks of remote work that you would like to mention?
- Is it important for you to work from the office or from home?
- Do you require any assistance from me?
Tips for Finding Work Opportunities Online
Most up-to-date job postings highlight options for remote work. However, some of the most popular job search websites may have been written by HR interns, and they could miss essential details. Unfortunately, some managers prefer their employees to be present in the office, which could result in limited or no remote work opportunities. Potential candidates must demonstrate their worth and provide reasons why they would be a valuable addition to the company to be considered for a remote position. Unless you possess exceptional skills and are seeking a lower salary, while also providing compelling reasons for not being able to attend work on-site, it’s unlikely that a company would be willing to enable remote work.
However, for those of us in search of telecommuting options, it’s important to consider the following tips:
It’s crucial to carefully read the job description. Inaccurate or poorly worded job postings can be misleading, and it’s necessary to review them thoroughly to avoid missing essential details. Once you have applied and have been shortlisted for an interview, it’s vital to double-check all the information provided before starting the job. Additionally, when multiple departments are involved in the hiring process, conflicts can arise. Therefore, it’s essential to discuss any concerns openly to prevent any possible issues.
In case there are only a few vacant positions available, it may be necessary to prove your suitability for the job by negotiating and showcasing your skills. Employing an individual who already has knowledge in the industry can often be advantageous for a company, rather than having to train someone from scratch. To excel in a remote role, it’s important to demonstrate that you possess the ability to work independently.
Aside from meeting all of their requirements, you must also provide a compelling reason for them to allow you to work remotely in this position. If the role is advertised as being suitable for remote work, you could explain that it is your personal preference and emphasize your relevant qualifications as previously mentioned. However, if your preference alone is insufficient to warrant remote employment, you may need to provide additional justifications such as travel expenses, quarantine, or any other relevant concerns.
Conclusion
Remote work opportunities would not have become as widespread as they are today without the impact of the pandemic. Difficult times often result in change, and this is no different. This is not exposing a hidden truth or unleashing a secret, but rather, implementing a new method of work that has significantly affected the job market. Remote work is on the rise, and corporate preferences on the matter are largely irrelevant. Many websites are now optimised for remote work, and related terminology is now commonplace. Utilising Zoom is now as natural as using Google Docs, despite the fact that just five years ago, technical staff did not prioritize the need to learn the necessary technology. The sunk-cost fallacy is a cognitive bias that is frequently observed in both employees and employers. As many individuals enjoy the convenience of working remotely, it’s highly improbable that they will voluntarily relinquish their technological skills to return to a conventional office environment. Therefore, this trend is unlikely to be reversed, and aspiring employees must now adapt to the new norms.
- A Wi-Fi router serves as a network component that is distinct from the rest of a household’s system. To establish a productive home office configuration for remote work, it is imperative to have a dependable and steady network signal. Additionally, it is prudent to have alternative devices that can access different signal sources, such as a mobile phone.
