Remote Era: The Generation Who Works Miles Away From Home

Young Generations and Remote Work

Young generations have not only embraced the remote work model but also continue to encourage it.

Raised among computers, electronic devices and the Internet, they are used to online interactions and completing tasks digitally. Thus, the transition to remote culture has been quite natural for them.

The Advantages of Hiring Remote Employees

Companies are increasingly hiring remote employees. The advantages are numerous: not only are they accommodating employee preferences, but they are also reducing costs and enhancing productivity.

These are some of the benefits of hiring remote talent:

1. Reducing Operating Costs

Remote work allows companies to save money on real estate and other related costs. When employees work from home, organizations can rent small office spaces, which means that they will also spend less on utility bills and cleaning services.

In addition, when hiring nearshore or offshore talent, companies have access to a skilled and cost-effective workforce. Staff augmentation services allow companies in the US to easily access remote talent in Latin America.

2. Increased Productivity

Virtual teams have proven to be more productive than in-house teams due to four main reasons.

Skipping the daily commute saves time for other activities, easing stress. Also, workers can take short breaks that allow them to refocus as they see fit without feeling judged.

Moreover, there seem to be fewer distractions at home than in the office. This also relates to the fourth and last reason: at home, employees have the opportunity to create a workspace under the conditions that suit them best.

3. Improving Talent Retention

Remote work leads to higher levels of satisfaction and flexibility and contribute to higher levels of employee retention.

Companies that give employees the possibility to work in the environment of their choice and to freely organize their work schedule enable a better work-life balance. This translates into more engaged and enthusiastic employees.

Besides, the strong sense of independence and support makes it less likely for them to consider migrating to a different company.

Challenges to Overcome When Hiring Remote Employees

The following are some of the challenges organizations face when working with remote teams.

Cultural and Time Differences

Although cultural and time differences may affect interaction among remote coworkers, these issues can be tackled by means of continuing education and virtual events. Social gatherings and team-building activities help create a sense of belonging, understanding, and empathy among coworkers.

Nearshoring services, which allow companies in the US to hire Latin American talent, are also key as the two share similar time zones and cultural differences are not as important.

Time and Performance Management

Managing employees who are located all over the world can seem daunting. However, there are many ways to assess performance:

• a) The results obtained.
• b) The quality of interactions.
• c) The feedback received from other colleagues and clients.

These “metrics” are a good way to evaluate employees’ achievements and help managers identify any red flags, if they exist.

Communication and Collaboration Problems

Implementing regular meetings with designated communication channels can positively impact communication and collaboration. These meetings are key to mitigating feelings of social and professional isolation.

Tips for Hiring Young Remote Talents

It is vital for companies to take into account the preferences of young remote workers:

• They value work-life balance: Remote work offers them the possibility to use the time saved on commute for their interests and needs. For example, by having more time to exercise or do an activity they enjoy.
• They value flexibility: Younger generations value remote work for its flexibility, allowing them to collaborate from anywhere.
• They value casual work environments: Online work gives them the chance to collaborate from a stress-free and comfortable space of their choice, improving performance and productivity.
• They value diversity and inclusion: Since young talents were raised in a digital world, they believe that embracing diversity and inclusion is especially important, seeing it as a reflection of the company’s culture and values.

What Is the Best Way to Manage Virtual Teams?

Communication is key to successfully managing a virtual team. Goals and expectations should be set clearly to avoid misunderstandings and ambiguity.

Communication is key to successfully managing a virtual team. Goals and expectations should be set clearly to avoid misunderstandings and ambigMoreover, it is advisable for teams to have short daily meetings as well as regular team-building activities to cultivate trust and companionship.

Having access to the right tools to monitor and track individual and team progress is also key to a successful remote team.

Is Remote Work Right For Your Organization?

Although certain roles require employees to be on-site, the adequate tools and leaders enable most companies to successfully transition to a remote model or, at least, a hybrid one.

The key elements are tech tools, synchronous and asynchronous communication, team-building activities, and a positive attitude towards mentoring and supporting employees.

Remote Work Is The Preferred Option for Young Generations

Although recent studies highlight the value of in-person social interaction in the workplace, many millennials and members of the so-called gen-z continue to gravitate towards remote work.

While remote work may limit access to traditional networking opportunities within an office, it can also allow professionals to build a wider virtual network and explore career options beyond geographical limitations.

Whatever the case, it is clear that young generations will continue embracing work models that allow them to maintain flexibility and a good work-life balance.

Looking for skilled young- professionals around the globe? We’ve got you covered. Contact us to find the best talent for your company!