Let’s be truthful: at one time, remote work felt like a perk or a fantasy for most people. No commute, flex hours, and working in your PJs? I’m down. But over the last couple of years, what started as a perk is now a way of life for millions of people around the globe.

If you are concerned with what remote work is, or asking yourself what remote work means, you are not alone. The meaning of remote work has changed so quickly and continues to evolve. So, let’s break down what remote work actually is, how remote work works, the pros and cons of remote work, and why remote work is all but guaranteed to stay.

What is Remote Work?

Remote work is doing the same job but outside of a traditional office. It could be at home, in a coffee shop, in a coworking or shared office, or even overseas in another country! The main difference is that you are not in the company’s office at all. You are remote, after all, hence the name.

Remote work does not mean working less or working at “easier” tasks. It means you are still completing your work responsibilities, simply in a location of your choosing, most likely with the help of the internet, communication software, and cloud-based applications.

What is Remote Work for Employees?
Remote work means freedom for employees, but it can also mean accountability.

You have the choice of where to work, which might be your kitchen table, a separate office at home, or perhaps you are on a beach in Bali (and the Wi-Fi actually works) and can still manage to perform work responsibilities! You usually have more control over how you work schedules, which is the benefit of being a parent, caregiver, a person who enjoys nighttime as productive time, and those who like to rise early.

Yet, with lifestyle choices (freedom) comes some difficulty. Without a boss looking over your shoulder and no actual coworkers seated next to you, you’re responsible for managing your time, staying focused, and establishing boundaries between your work life and personal life.

What Does Remote Work Mean for Employees?
There is still a lot to keep in mind as employees, even while remote work changes the entire workforce.

Some companies have fully committed to remote work, while others are giving employees the option to work either partially or fully from home. Employers and the overall workforce are learning that they do not need to see someone at a desk from 9 to 5 to know what they need to do to do a good job.

In turn, the employers and state of the industry also present an opportunity for employees to reframe the way they view their employment in terms of trust, accountability, and team spirit.

A Short History: How Did We Get Here?
Before the internet, remote work wasn’t a thing for most of us. But as technology evolved, suddenly, we had faster internet connections, laptops, video options, etc.—companies began to allow people to work remotely, especially in certain sectors (think tech, marketing, design, or writing).

Then came COVID-19. Overnight, millions of people were working from home. What was originally a solution to a temporary problem like this became a new way of working for the world. Companies realized that remote work was effective, and, for many employees, it was hard to go back to the way it was.

The Upsides of Working Remotely

Working remotely is very popular and has its perks. Here are the big ones that people either love about working remotely or go to their grave raving about.

1. No Commute!
No more traffic or waiting during irregular intervals for a train. That time can be dedicated to sleeping, spending time with family, exercising, or just relaxing.

2. Flexible Hours
Want to start your day at 7 AM and knock off at 3? To go pick up your kids, do you need to take a break at lunch? Remotely will allow you flexibility with your hours, provided the work gets done.

3. Generally Better Work-Life Balance
Usually, working remotely is a great way to integrate your job into your personal life. You will be home mostly. Being home may allow you to spend more time with your family or pets or have more time to be you!

4. Variety of Opportunities
If the location of your workplace is irrelevant, you can apply for jobs from anywhere. If you don’t have to be in a particular location, companies can hire great talent from anywhere in the world.

5. Savings (for you and the company)
Remote workers save money on gas, public transportation, eating lunch out, and work clothes in general. For companies and for themselves.

The Disadvantages of Working From Home
Nothing is perfect in this world, and remote work has its downsides as well.

1. There Is a Chance You Will Feel Isolated
Some people may miss the water cooler conversations in the office, a lunch with a colleague or two, or just being around people.

2. Difficulty in Turning Off Work Mode
When your office is at home, it is even easier to keep working and lose track of time, leading to burnout.

3. Disconnection in Communication
Communication can be harder as the meaning of texts and emails can be lost in translation, especially when there are no face-to-face conversations before or after. You have to make an intentional effort to remain connected with coworkers.

4. Distractions at Home
If you have kids, pets, or laundry at home, working at home can be the most distracting work environment if you do not keep distractions to a minimum.

5. We Are Dependent On Our Technology
If your internet goes out, then you’ll be in trouble. Not everyone has the best setup at home either.
The Disadvantages of Working From Home
Nothing is perfect in this world, and remote work has its downsides as well.

Tips for Succeeding in Remote Work

You’re either trying to improve your remote worker skills or you’re brand new to remote work; these tips should help.

Set up a workspace. Even if a small desk in the corner helps you concentrate.

Create a routine or schedule. Starting and stopping work at the same time every day provides you with structure.

Take breaks. Get up, stretch, go for a walk, or do whatever you would in an office.

Communicate constantly. Stay in touch with your teammates and coworkers through chat, calls, or video meetings. If you can.

Don’t ignore self-care. Remote work easily allows you to ignore taking care of yourself. Eat, sleep, and create time for enjoyable activities.

Is Remote Work Here to Stay?
Yes.

I realize that some industries and jobs will always need an in-person version of the job. However, many jobs, especially in technology, writing, marketing, design, customer support, and education fields, are now shifting towards remote work rather than being the exception.

As technology continues to improve and people’s demand for flexible work from employers increases, we can expect more remote work opportunities and tools to accomplish remote work.

Wrap-Up
So, what is remote work? What does remote work mean?
It means more than just the ability to work from home. It’s about reshaping how we think about work and it being a part of our lives, how teams connect, and what we need to feel productive and happy. For some, remote work is revolutionary; for others, it just takes time to adjust.
Remote work provides a new approach to work, which is the one thing that is certain. Where permanent remote work will lead us in the future is unknown; for now, it’s clear that we are just beginning to unfold this new chapter of work, and remote work is here to stay.
So, whether you are working remotely as we speak, starting to consider a remote job, or leading a remote team, knowing how this new culture works is not only important but will be essential for success in this remote work revolution.
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