Since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has become extremely popular and widely adopted among individuals and companies. Many individuals now prefer to work from their homes or comfort zones rather than the conventional work setting. Likewise, some companies now prefer to stick with remote workers rather than on-site staff given the operating costs reduction it presents. While remote work is gradually becoming a new normal, it bears mentioning that this work pattern carries several cons. Here, I discuss what remote work entails, its pros and cons.
What is remote work?
Remote work simply refers to a work arrangement where an individual gets to carry out his job from any location other than the traditional office space. This location could be one's home or any place with an internet connection. Remote work thrives on the availability of digital tools that aids effective communication and workflow.
Why is remote work gaining popularity?
One of the core benefits of remote work is that it breaks cross-border barriers. With this innovative work culture, individuals from all around the world can work for companies or projects in different countries without having to set foot in these countries. This wasn't so in time past and it hindered the connectivity of the global economy. Remote work also allows individuals to earn in foreign currencies without being citizens of these countries.
Cost reduction is another core benefit associated with remote work. With this work pattern, individuals do not have to bother about paying transportation fares to and from work daily. With remote workers, daily operating costs get reduced for companies. Remote work also brings about flexibility. Individuals can work at any time of the day as long as they produce results or are effective and efficient.
Cons of remote work
To every coin there are always two sides. Despite the numerous benefits of remote work, it has several disadvantages. These include lack of corporate work culture, distractions, laziness, communication issues and isolation. Without face-to-face interactions, individuals may feel lonely and isolated. Effective communication may also be hindered within remote work settings due to factors such as poor internet connection or inability to use digital tools. Also, remote workers could face distractions from family members or children, etc. Moreover, working from one's comfort zone could encourage laxities as there are no rules in place to maintain a professional work culture.
Final thoughts
Ranging from flexibility, comfort to cost savings and job inclusion, the importance and benefits of remote work cannot be overestimated. However, remote workers and companies must ensure to tackle challenges associated with this work pattern, including isolation, laziness and effective communication.