Digital Nomadism and The Rise of Remote Workers

In the wake of the global pandemic, we’ve seen the rise of remote workers relocating in their masses, in search of sun, sea, and a nomadic lifestyle. Gone are the days of commuting and clocking into 9-5’s. Now the focus has shifted towards embracing a digitally nomadic existence, as working from home has become the norm. With the vaccination rollout being accelerated, travel restrictions easing and more countries added to the green list the idea of “home” could be almost anywhere.

Many found the initial rush from companies to equip their staff to work from home a little overwhelming. But, everyone soon settled into a new way of working. So many found it more effective than office working that by 2025 an estimated 70% of workforces will be working for at least five days a month from the comfort of their own homes. That’s a lot of remote workers.

COVID-19’s ripple effects have undoubtedly increased the process of becoming location independent and some countries are even encouraging this. Estonia has introduced the ‘digital nomad visas’. Allowing potential workers to live and work there for a year. Whilst Madeira has opted to go a step further and welcome temporary residents to their ‘digital nomad village’.

Why has working from home been so successful?

We’ve narrowed it down to the three main reasons we believe have allowed this new way of working to thrive. 

• It requires less office space: Companies save on costs as office spaces are being reduced and redesigned, with a collaborative meeting space taking precedence over-restrictive cubicles. 

This could encourage the working week to be an amalgamation of days in the office, for building and introducing projects. Alongside days spent working from home dedicated to individual tasks.

• Can improve inclusivity: The rise of remote workers enables companies to encourage diversity and inclusion in the workplace without the restriction of location. 

This means the calibre of employees can hail from all over the world. From different socioeconomic, geographic, and cultural backgrounds. granting flexibility to caregivers and those with disabilities. Fostering inclusivity and creating a better working environment for all.

• Can encourage a happier, healthier work-life: Working from home brings a greater sense of wellbeing and motivation, as time is balanced more effectively. This helps to distinguish between work and life outside it, allowing time for hobbies and interests.

There’s also a higher employee retention rate and proven health benefits to remote working. Such as the decrease in exposure to illnesses and the ability to create a comfortable and ergonomic workstation. No doubt working from home can give employees the environment and time needed to ensure they make healthier choices.

This isn’t always the case, but the choice can be a defining factor. Working from home allows the person to reflect on how they work. They can clearly see their own bad habits and what bad office habits they used to have. Whilst many were home-working they undoubtedly noticed a sharp intake in workplace snacking. On the plus side, there was a decrease in off-topic conversations with other team members.

What is the future of remote working?

The number of digital nomads should rise, as they fly off to various locations after the pandemic. However, the ability to do so will remain with a small percentage fortunate enough to do so. It isn’t realistic to expect every industry to make the switch to remote working. For some sectors, like the healthcare industry, it would be physically impossible. 

Although, after a year of restrictions and life-altering circumstances we believe more and more people will choose this lifestyle. With staff encouraged to continue working from home. This could be a mixture of some days in the office and some spent working remotely. What really matters is companies adaptability. If you’ve created a culture where office working is essential you’ll run into problems. Team members will struggle to access their work and your business will struggle.

For many, opting for this location-independent lifestyle, remote working from wherever there’s an internet connection, and embracing all that they can from life might prove to be too great an option to pass up!