Workplaces that provide remote and flexible working models are becoming increasingly attractive to talented workers from Generation Z and millennial generations, yet can businesses afford this trend?
COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to develop new policies, with some opting for remote work or digital nomadism as part of these. Below are some advantages that it may bring:
1. Increased Flexibility
Remote work gives employees the ability to set their own schedule and locations, creating a more comfortable and productive working environment. Furthermore, eliminating commute time allows employees to focus more on their work as well as spend time meeting personal needs.
Digital nomad remote work provides many advantages for companies. Teams can work remotely with people from around the globe, which opens up doors for new skills and perspectives to be introduced into teams. Furthermore, round-the-clock coverage is an advantage that helps companies operate across different time zones.
2. Access to a Wider Pool of Talent
Remote working and digital nomadism enable employees to choose where they live and pursue careers that reflect their passions, while opening companies up to talent pools beyond their immediate geographical region.
By tapping into this wider pool of talent, remote workers can overcome feelings of isolation that they often experience when working remotely. Video conference software, co-working spaces and travel opportunities for remote employees are effective solutions that can increase productivity while helping employees feel more connected to colleagues.
3. Increased Diversity
Digital nomads enjoy working from multiple locations around the world, from coworking spaces and hotels to coliving environments and hotels – providing them with greater work-life balance while exploring various cultures.
Though building a cohesive team culture when working remotely can be challenging, companies should prioritize developing excellent written and video communication skills so remote workers can compensate for lack of nonverbal cues when communicating via email or video calls.
Digital nomads bring with them an array of skills and perspectives that help drive innovation and creativity within a team, which bodes well for business in general. It is exciting to think what the future of business may hold as more businesses look towards remote workers for innovation and creative inspiration.
4. Reduced Costs
Many digital nomads choose countries with lower costs of living as it allows them to maintain a better standard of living while saving money for future investments.
Digital nomads often travel during their work breaks to give themselves an essential break from office environments and home and family stressors. A trip to an exotic locale or even just an afternoon excursion can renew perspectives and renew motivations.
5. Increased Motivation
Digital nomads are increasingly taking to this lifestyle as a way of both work-life balance and cultural exploration. Countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka and Colombia all offer visas specifically for digital nomads – further contributing to its growing popularity.
Implementing a policy of remote work and digital nomadism takes careful planning. Employees should have clear expectations and guidelines regarding their job duties and are equipped with secure virtual private networks and collaboration tools that allow them to work from any location.
6. Less Isolation and Loneliness
Loneliness can be a serious health risk that leads to elevated blood pressure and heart disease. Furthermore, loneliness has been associated with lower productivity rates, higher turnover rates, and a diminished sense of community.
Remote work and digital nomadism offer solutions for this dilemma, by connecting people from around the globe through virtual communities online and coworking spaces that offer networking and socializing opportunities.
7. Increased Collaboration
Remote work allows employees to connect with colleagues from all around the world, leading to new communication and collaboration practices. Digital nomads take it a step further by joining coworking spaces or online communities dedicated to remote workers – helping reduce loneliness and isolation that could negatively affect mental health or professional performance.
When hiring digital nomad employees, it’s essential to set clear expectations and responsibilities. Be sure to communicate regularly to foster teamwork.
