Work-From-Anywhere is here to stay. Even though many want to work remotely, the question is, are they ready for it ? A Gartner report mentions that 70% of employees would work remotely at least 5 days a month by 2025. There are many advantages of switching to Work-From-Anywhere. As a human, you prefer to enjoy benefits at all times; however, before enjoying the benefits, it’s recommended that you analyse and see whether you are ready for it.
This is essential because, if you do not get it right, you would pay the price. The requirements should be fulfilled before switching into a work-from-anywhere mode. There are many advantages you would enjoy by moving into a WFA mode including flexibility, cost effectiveness and increased productivity. However, increased productivity depends on your ability to manage your schedule in a smart, disciplined way.
The impact of AI is massive; efficiency would be increased and accuracy would be enhanced. Nevertheless, roles using creativity, critical thinking and emotional intelligence could not be automated. 41% of executives believe that they will bring in the highest productivity in their businesses by investing in artificial intelligence.
The World Economic Forum states; according to Mercer’s Global Talent Trends 2024 Asia report, 83% of Asia’s employees are experiencing burnout in the past year. Asian employees spend 6 hours of their working time monthly worrying about their finances. Work-from-anywhere would enable you to access multiple income streams.
Here are 10 factors you should consider before switching to the Work-From Anywhere mode;
- Technological readiness: It’s recommended that you ensure you possess high-speed internet connectivity, secure communication tools and the required hardware/software that will help you in a smooth remote workflow. These are critical aspects for you to engage in your work and business. It’s at the core of your decision of switching to work-from-anywhere.
- Digital skills: Collaboration is an integral aspect when you are working remotely. It will be a huge boost to your productivity. Therefore, your proficiency in using tools for collaboration, project management and productivity makes a massive impact. 10-15 years ago it was said “Go mobile or go home”, now it has changed and now it should be “go and learn your digital skills or go home”. Learning new age digital skills such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, data analysis, augmented reality are essential and cannot be ignored at any cost. This will add plenty of value to your profile and increase your chances of getting hired if you have these digital skills.
- Communication & collaboration: Analysing your ability communicate effectively and collaborate accordingly matters. Tools such as Slack could be used to communicate with your team when you are working remotely. Your virtual communication and collaboration skills should be strong.
- Discipline & time management: Work-from-anywhere requires a higher level of self-motivation ? Yes, you need self-motivation; but, more importantly, it’s about discipline. Your integrity and discipline go hand in hand if you are to become a successful remote worker, freelancer or digital nomad. Time management is another critical factor because you need to adapt to different time zones. You will be in Asia, your clients maybe in Europe, Middle East or Africa. Therefore, time zone management is essential.
- Work-life balance: Two of the biggest concerns that remote workers have are loneliness and isolation. It is essential to ensure that you do not burnout and have the proper work-life balance. 20% of effort will bring in 80% of results. Therefore, if you focus more on what you want to achieve, you will gradually achieve work-life balance. Knowing when to disconnect, helps in work-life balance. Replacing some of your current habits would help you achieve it.
- Adaptability: Work-from-anywhere is all about embracing change. Frequent changes in remote work practices, new technologies and circumstances would take place and you should be able to handle them in a smart manner. Your flexibility muscle will be tested in these situations.
- Doorway to opportunities: Remote work creates a doorway to global opportunities. Also, think about the increased competition and how can you be unique in comparison to other talents in a bigger global talent pool.
- Cybersecurity: One cyber attack could ruin your entire career. Therefore, ensure you possess the relevant tools and knowledge to maintain data security. Protection against cyber threats cannot be taken for granted when you are working remotely.
- Organizational culture: Remote working policies are an integral part in a remote working or work-from-anywhere context. Communication norms and support systems of the organization are essential too and it’s recommended that you assess whether these norms and systems align with your preferences and needs.
- Personal preference: Your personal choice is of paramount importance because when you are in a remote-working mindset; it’s more likely you are engaged in a one-person business. Need for in-person interaction; coffee meet-ups are essential when you are in a work-from-anywhere context. It is also a great way to disconnect from devices and exchange knowledge and ideas.
These 10 factors play a huge role and needs to be considered before you think of switching to a work-from-anywhere career. However, the Future of Work persuades you to move into such a mode.
It would be a life-changing decision.
For a one-of-a-kind career, you need to be one-of-a-kind.
Let’s connect, collaborate and celebrate your global career breakthrough.
