Get Somewhere | Issue 004

ABOUT SOMEWHERE

Hey there! We’re a passionate crew of business operators with loads of experience hiring overseas. We’ve seen the perks of remote work firsthand, and we’re all about sharing these awesome opportunities with as many folks as possible!

READ

The #1 Thing You Won’t Want to Miss This Week

As we roll into the holiday season, let’s chat about some awesome holiday bonuses and benefits that remote employers can offer to their independent contractors. These perks not only help your team feel appreciated during this festive time but also strengthen those valuable working relationships!

Philippines: If you’re working with contractors in the Philippines, consider offering a 13th Month Pay bonus. This is a mandatory benefit that employees receive by the end of the year, and while it’s typically for full-time employees, many companies extend this gesture to contractors as well. It’s basically an extra month’s salary and helps everyone tackle those holiday expenses. Plus, throwing in a little Christmas bonus can really make their season bright!

Latin America: In many Latin American countries, there’s a similar practice called Aguinaldo, or 13th Month Pay. For instance, in Brazil, contractors can expect this bonus in two installments by November 30 and December 20. In Mexico, it’s due by December 20 and usually equals at least 15 days of salary. Offering this bonus can go a long way in showing appreciation for their hard work throughout the year!

South Africa: While there’s no legal requirement for year-end bonuses, many remote employers in South Africa give performance-based bonuses in December, often equivalent to one month’s pay. It’s a fantastic way to reward your contractors for their dedication and effort as the year comes to a close.

These holiday bonuses aren’t just about the cash; they show your independent contractors that you value their contributions and care about their well-being.?

So, as you think about how to spread some cheer this season, consider these options! What kind of holiday perks do you think would resonate best with your remote team?

DISCOVER

What People Are Talking About This Week

Everyone’s buzzing about the rise of flexible work arrangements.?

As more companies jump on the remote and hybrid bandwagon, it’s clear that flexibility is no longer just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have for attracting and keeping top talent. Employees want jobs that let them juggle their work and personal lives without having to sacrifice one for the other.

Many companies are now offering options like flexible hours, hybrid setups, and even compressed work weeks. This shift not only boosts employee happiness but also cranks up productivity. Companies that adapt to these new expectations are seeing lower turnover rates and much happier teams.?

If you want to dive into how flexible work can transform your hiring strategy, check out this article from Forbes: Why Flexibility is the Future of Work.

So, if you’re not already thinking about how to bring flexibility into your workplace, now’s the time to start! Let’s keep this convo going—what are your thoughts on flexible work arrangements?

WATCH/LISTEN

Breaking News? Breaking Bad??

In this video, Cami, Somewhere's Head of People, shares her take on what makes a great remote HR manager. Here are the key highlights:

Great Leadership: Look for someone who can inspire and motivate the team. A strong leader sets the tone for a positive work environment.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for remote work. Clear and open dialogue helps everyone stay connected and informed.

Empathy: An HR manager with empathy creates a supportive atmosphere where employees feel understood and valued.

Engagement: Keeping employees engaged with both the company and HR policies boosts morale and fosters a sense of belonging.

KNOW

Our Best Hiring Tip This Week

Let’s focus on some key red flags to watch for during job interviews. Recognizing these signs can help you spot potential issues with candidates and streamline your hiring process.

• Unresponsiveness: Slow replies can indicate disinterest; quick responses show enthusiasm.
• Ignoring Instructions: Candidates who fail to follow application guidelines may lack attention to detail.
• Job Hopping: Frequent changes in employment can signal instability; understanding the reasons behind it is crucial.

By keeping these red flags in mind, you’ll be better equipped to identify candidates who are truly a good fit for your team. We compiled a full, detailed list of what to watch out for in this article.?

That’s it for this week! Keep an eye out for more insights coming your way soon. Happy recruiting!