Remote work enables employees to work from a location they choose. It can range from home, co-working spaces, to any part of the world. Some job opportunities give the advantage of working off-site completely, while some job opportunities make use of a hybrid method where the employee can both work remotely and go to the physical location at required times. This type of work arrangement has both benefits and drawbacks.

Benefits of Remote Work 

• Can work from a place the employee feels most comfortable 
• Can have flexible work hours
• Can have better work-life balance
• Can be away from unnecessary office politics
• Can reduce costs related to travel, clothing appropriate for work etc.
• Increases productivity
• Reduces stress
• Can widen the geographical location of job-search
• Employers can hire employees from various countries and expand their talent pool
• Reduces absenteeism of employees

Drawbacks of Remote Work 

• Should have uninterrupted power supply and a great network connection.
• Should be able to create clear cut work-life boundaries
• Distractions caused by household chores, family members, or pets
• Distractions lead to less focus on office work
• Difficulty in communicating and maintaining good relationships with colleagues
• Potential for overworking and burnout
• Lack of face-to-face interaction can lead to stagnant career prospects
• Risk of data leakage when handling company information outside the office

Steps to improve off-site work arrangement

• Clear workspace

You must separate a place to work at your home. This place should minimise distractions and help you set limits between work and personal life.

• Time management

You should have a pre-planned work schedule, clearly allocating time for different tasks of your job.

• Maintaining good communication

You have to clarify any doubts you have by asking questions using various online methods. You must stay in touch with your team mates and collaborate with them.

• Protect your mental health

To become a productive remote work employee you have to take regular breaks, do some simple exercises and engage in social activities outside work to avoid burnout.

• Adapting and problem solving

You may face unique challenges as a remote work employee therefore you should be able to solve them by adapting to new technologies and being resourceful

Location independent work is a great way to achieve your career goals while spending quality time with family and friends. It is the perfect way to travel on the path of the career, specially for the ones with great discipline and who can work with less supervision. For novices and trained professionals who are looking for remote jobs or permanent jobs, CareerFirst.lk is the best job-seeking platform. There are many opportunities cutting across private, public, and international sectors to achieve great heights in your career. Follow CareerFirst on Facebook and LinkedIn to get the latest updates on jobs.