The world of work has experienced multifaceted transformation since the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the most significant milestones in this transformation was the previously unexplored path of remote work. Be it IT, healthcare, or banking, employees could work remotely from anywhere in the world and continue their respective business operations.
Fast forward to 2023, and we are still following the trend of remote working With advanced technology and fast connectivity, this trend continues to evolve and become the normal way of working for employees and employers.
From the benefits of flexible working arrangements to the challenges of managing a distributed team, we delved into the exciting world of remote work and discovered how it is changing the face of modern business. But going forward, what’s the future of remote work and what kind of work environment do employees and companies expect in 2023 and beyond?
In this blog, we will acknowledge this trivia and explore the latest trends in remote work. We will understand how these trends have reshaped the way we work, communicate and collaborate and will continue to do so. So whether you’re a remote worker, a manager, or interested to adopt these latest remote workplace trends, keep reading and discover the exciting world of remote work.
What is the Current Scenario of Remote Working?
As per a recent report by Indeed India, the number of job postings with the keyword “remote” increased by 377% from March to December 2020. The report also highlighted that the top remote jobs hiring were for positions in information technology, education, and healthcare. This indicates how the modern workforce has smoothly adopted remote working as an integral part of the working world.
Remote working presents unique opportunities for flexibility and high connectivity to employees and employers. Employees love the improved work-life balance and employers receive a larger talent pool to deploy without any geographical barriers. Not to forget the reduction in overhead costs and infrastructure demand with the added advantage of sustainability.
Employee Point of View on Remote Work
It is fascinating that what came up as a temporary fix to the pandemic became the way of working for employees. In fact, remote working is an expectation from potential employees from their employers such as SMEs, startups, or even MNCs. Let us look at the factors responsible for the increasing popularity of remote work among employees
- Improved work-life balance: Remote or hybrid work provided employees with more control over their working schedule, allowing them to enhance their work-life balance. According to a survey by TimesJobs, 67% of Indian employees reported a better work-life balance with remote working. In addition, working remotely and freely with high flexibility, reduced work stress and improved their mental well-being.
- Increasing shift to gig work: Digitization and the pandemic has led to a rise in gig workers worldwide. Freelancers, on-call workers, independent contractors, workers from agencies, and contract firms became a part of the gig economy. Flexibility, independence, and additional income are the main aspects that motivated the shift to gig work during remote working.
Employer View on Remote Work
Let us look at the reasons why employers are comfortable with remote working for their organization
- Access to large talent pool: Employers get access to a larger pool of talent and skilled resources, allowing them to choose the right candidate for the job irrespective of their location.
- Cost savings: Companies do not require a set infrastructure when it comes to working remotely. Options like satellite offices and shared workspaces are removing the need for infrastructure and reducing the cost to the company.
Why is Remote Work Favored?
Because of the significant benefits of remote work, including increased employee engagement and enhanced productivity, the switch is a no-brainer. It’s one of the best ways to expand globally. Companies are more likely to support and adapt to remote-friendly policies and develop an evolved and flexible remote work business model for the future. Having said that, let us look at the trends in remote work that may prevail in the future for effective remote working.
Top Trends in Remote Work for the Future
More Flexibility With Hybrid Working
Flexible working hours and schedule is getting popular among employees. Running an errand, having appointments, or focusing on fitness, employees want to balance it all. Providing remote employees control over their working schedule helps them lead a balanced happy and healthy life, thus enhancing work productivity.
Though remote work has many advantages, few employees still prefer to work in an office environment. A hybrid model that combines the best of both worlds is gaining popularity while maintaining productivity and collaboration with employers. Automation tools such as virtual assistants, AI chatbots, and tracking systems can help employees stay focused during their flexible work schedules and be dedicated to their business expectations.
Cloud Computing Changing Remote Work
Adapting to cloud computing is an important remote work trend that will prevail in the future. In comparison to on-premise infrastructure, cloud computing technology offer employees many benefits such as flexibility, scalability, and enhanced security.
Remote employees can streamline their activities by signing in to their respective accounts in cloud technologies such as Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), software-as-a-service (SaaS), and virtual desktops. Employers can tactfully manage remote teams and engage in remote team-building activities. Owing to its benefits and effect, cloud-based services in one of the major remote works trends which remote companies are leveraging for effective remote collaboration
Increased Cyber Security
As we move forward in 2023, increasing the use of cloud storage, AI, and IoT, increases the need for evolved cyber security systems. Employees should be provided with required training regarding cybersecurity practices to avoid phishing scams or cyber-attacks. In addition, multifactor authentication, encrypted communication, and Virtual Private Networks (VPN) can avoid or reduce cyber breaches. Compliance with IT laws and updating security protocols to enhance cybersecurity are imperative for secure remote work in this ever-evolving business environment.
Diversity in Recruitment
Remote work has sparked the hiring and recruitment of employees from various educational and cultural backgrounds. It has opened doors to hiring top talent and building a diverse workforce without applying any geographical limitations. Remote working has eliminated challenges associated with in-office working making it easier for employees to participate in virtual team building. This creates an inclusive environment among remote teams, making it easier to retain remote employees.
Perks and Benefits for Remote Employees
Remote work is no longer just an advantage or an exception. It is becoming the new norm. Companies are focusing on employee well-being and offering remote-friendly perks and benefits. These perks include wellness days, flexible working hours, recognition awards and merits, health insurance, bonus, and much more. These perks not only guarantee employee mental well-being but also help companies retain employees recruited from around the globe.
Moreover, fostering open communication encourages virtual team building. Being vocal about feedback and concerns helps build a healthy remote work environment for the employees.
What is the Future of Remote Work?
Remote work is here to stay and is expected to increase up to 77% in the upcoming decade as per a recent report by Global Workplace Analytics. Thanks to the positive aspects of remote and hybrid work, it’s taking hold, and many employers and employees are adapting to it. With increasing job opportunities, advanced virtual tools, and enhanced productivity, remote working will become a norm in 2023 and beyond.
If your organization is looking forward to expanding globally by building remote teams, then take a look at our services. From hiring to managing remote employees, our business models provide 360-degree support and guidance, making your India business transaction smooth and cost-effective.
