Remote work — be it from home or from anywhere — is here to stay. Since the onset of the pandemic, remote work has increased six-fold and has been on an upward trajectory. This dramatic shift has enabled employees to work from anywhere, anytime — changing the face of the workforce.
Although it may seem like a dream come true for employees, working from anywhere can present its own set of challenges. In fact, work-from-anywhere employees may face more challenges than in-office employees.
Keep reading to know the common issues that work from anywhere employees face and how you can tackle them head-on.
Major Concerns Among New Remote Workers
Work from anywhere is no longer just a passing trend; it is the future of work.
Suhani Sachin Lad
, HR Professional at Center for Creative Leadership, shares her thoughts:
“COVID-19 has directed us into a new work age, much like the internet did for the digital era. It’s a chance to consciously reassess whom we work with, where we work when we work, and how we work to establish scenarios in which everyone benefits.”
Although it has been practiced for a while, remote work still presents a number of concerns among employees. Here are a few areas of concern that new remote workers face:
- Lack of Resources. Compared to traditional office settings, remote workers often do not have access to the same equipment and technical support.
- Social Isolation. Isolation and feelings of loneliness are common among remote workers — especially for those who are accustomed to interacting with colleagues.
- Poor Work-life Balance. Transitioning to work from anywhere blurs the line between your place for work and for rest. This can lead to difficulty in balancing work and life.
Common Issues with Work From Anywhere & How to Solve Them
All challenges can be addressed with the right strategies and this is the same for work-from-anywhere concerns. Here are 12 common issues work from anywhere employees face and how to tackle them:
- Communication Difficulties
Make use of video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management software to stay in touch with your team and to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Ahmad Nawaz, Solutions Consultant at Tech Scalar, agrees to this, adding that:
“Effective communication is crucial when working remotely. I found that it’s important to be clear and concise, especially when you don’t have the opportunity to have face-to-face conversations.”
- Isolation and Loneliness
Isolation and loneliness can be difficult to deal with when working from home or any other remote location. To combat these feelings, you can try to create a sense of community and connection with your coworkers through virtual team-building activities and social events. This includes video calls, online games, virtual coffee breaks (or even virtual happy hours). These types of activities can help to foster relationships and create a sense of community among your colleagues.
- Time Management Challenges
Accountability is key in remote work. Take note of daily goals, create a schedule (and stick to it), and use time-tracking software to help you overcome time management challenges.
- Technical Issues
There are a few ways to solve technical issues during remote work. You can try troubleshooting the problem yourself by checking the system for updates, restarting the computer, or checking for any errors in the settings. If none of these solutions works, the best option is to reach out to your IT support for assistance. These experts will be able to provide more detailed instructions and guidance, and can even resources such as software and hardware upgrades to help minimize future technical issues.
- Internet Connectivity Issues
Remote workers are heavily reliant on connectivity. If you are encountering problems with your network, you can try moving to a different location, changing your internet service provider, or upgrading your internet plan. If troubleshooting the connectivity issue yourself doesn’t work, try reaching out to your IT support team for assistance.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Work-life Balance
To maintain a healthy work-life balance, you can try setting boundaries around your work time and taking breaks to rest and recharge. You can also try to incorporate physical activity, hobbies, and social activities into your daily routine.
- Lack of Support and Resources
Resources can be tricky for remote work. Do not hesitate to reach out to your manager or HR department. They most likely have resources available that you can access, such as additional training or advice. You can also try networking with others in your field or joining online forums or professional organizations that can provide valuable insight into your industry.
- Struggling with Motivation
The key to keeping motivation during remote work is knowing your goals. Set specific and achievable goals at the start of the day, and break them down into smaller steps. This can help you stay focused and on track. It’s also important to take breaks throughout the day and reward yourself for achieving your goals. Identify what motivates you, such as a break for a cup of tea or a walk, and don’t forget to plan those activities in your day.
- Difficulty in Collaborating with Team Members
Collaborating with colleagues can be challenging in remote work due to the logistical challenges of no face-to-face contact. To improve collaboration, it is important to plan out projects carefully and create clear expectations among your team. Productivity tools like shared project management software can also help facilitate collaboration in remote work settings.
- Managing Distractions
Distractions are everywhere — especially when you’re working remotely. One way to avoid distractions is to invest in noise-cancelling headphones or a white noise machine. You can also leverage your phone and email settings to cut out unnecessary distractions or set dedicated focus time.
- Maintaining Productivity
Maintaining productivity can be challenging for remote workers. To ensure productivity, it can be really helpful to establish a routine and create a dedicated workspace. Additionally, setting SMART goals and managing your time effectively can help you stay on track and stay productive.
- Limited Access to Company Resources
Understandably, remote workers may not have the same resources as those who work at the office. Do not hesitate to ask your manager or HR department for available equipment. If you need access to company resources while working remotely, you can try using remote access software, such as a VPN, to connect to your company’s network.
- Security Concerns
A remote work environment can raise the risk of a data breach or other cyber attack, especially on home networks.
Cybersecurity expert Karthikeyan Ramaswamy agrees and reminds remote workers that:
“Cyber attackers are increasingly exploiting vulnerabilities in our home networks, making it important to use strong passwords and keep our home routers up to date with the latest security patches.”
- Lack of Clear Direction
Direction comes mainly from your manager. Make sure to set regular check-ins or meeting with your supervisor to keep them posted on your goals and progress. This will give you an opportunity to get feedback on your work and make sure that you are on the right track. You can also use this time to ask any questions you have or bring up any concerns that you have about the project or team.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Company Culture
Company cultures are more challenging to maintain for remote work setups. Experts suggest holding virtual team-building activities, setting up communication channels, constant check-ups, and finding ways to celebrate company milestones and achievements.
- Disruptions due to Family and Personal Obligations
Family and personal obligations also become a challenge for remote workers, especially for those who have family members in the house during the workday, or children who need attention while working from home. Setting and communicating boundaries with family members can be helpful in this area.
- Lack of Separation between Work and Personal Life
Working from home (or anywhere) blurs the line between work and personal life. A healthy separation between work and personal life is important. Set boundaries around your work time and find a dedicated workspace to make sure that you maintain this separation.
- Limited Opportunities for Personal Development
The flexibility of working from home or anywhere provides a lot of focus on personal development and career growth. Look for learning opportunities in your field, enroll in training courses, and explore new technologies. You can also take advantage of networking events, webinars, and other virtual events to expand your professional network.
- Struggling with Time Zone Differences
Having colleagues in different time zones has become a norm with remote work.
Ezra Rosen, real estate agent at Sachs Realty, believes that borderless remote work is the future of work and encourages people to take advantage of the benefits of having colleagues or partners in different time zones:
“Taking advantage of time zone differences allows companies to extend their operations across continents 24/7, allowing them to make decisions faster and optimize their operations. Collaborating with partners in different time zones also gives organizations the opportunity to draw on different cultures and perspectives, leading to better outcomes.”
Tools such as project management software to keep track of tasks and deadlines, and being flexible and adaptable to accommodate different schedules are also helpful in managing time zone differences.
- Difficulty in Staying Organized
Setting a dedicated workspace with a comfortable desk and chair, adequate lighting, and minimal distractions can help you stay organized during remote work. Start your day by creating a to-do list to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Setting realistic goals for yourself can also be an effective way to stay organized while working remotely.
- Lack of In-Person Networking Opportunities
Remote work has limited opportunities for networking and personal development compared to traditional office environments. Combat these limitations by taking advantage of technology such as video conferencing platforms and online networking groups in platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other professionals in their field. You can also join groups or forums related to your industry or attend virtual events and conferences.
- Disruptions due to Unexpected Events or Emergencies
Disruptions from unexpected events or emergencies during remote work can be addressed by having a communication plan in place. This can include designated channels for emergency communication and clear instructions on who to contact and what steps to take in the event of an emergency. It is also important to have backup plans and contingencies in place, such as having remote access to important files and systems and being able to work from other different locations. It is also recommended to have constant open communication to help ensure that your team is on the same page and able to stay informed about any potential disruptions or emergencies.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Work Relationships
Work relationships can be harder to maintain for remote workers due to the lack of physical presence and in-person communication. Without the face-to-face interaction of the office, remote workers have to rely on digital communication methods, such as video conferencing and instant messaging, to stay connected with colleagues. Make sure you also maximize any opportunity to connect with your coworkers on a personal level, like virtual team-building activities.
- Limited Access to Company Support or Resources
To access company support or resources while working remotely, you can try reaching out to your manager or HR department, using remote access software to connect to your company’s network, and staying in touch with your team and colleagues for support and guidance.
- Struggling with Self-Motivation
Motivation is a common challenge among remote workers. To address this, set specific and achievable goals, find ways to make your work more meaningful and fulfilling, and seek out opportunities for learning and growth.
- Difficulty in Adapting to New Technologies
To improve your skills with new technologies, you can try seeking out training resources or online courses, asking for help or guidance from colleagues or IT support, and staying up to date with new developments in your industry.
- Struggling with Mental Health or Well-Being
To support your mental health and well-being while working remotely, learn to set boundaries around your work time, take breaks to rest and recharge, and incorporate physical activity, hobbies, and social activities into your daily routine.
Freelance academic writer Yogeshree emphasizes the importance of breaks, stating that:
“Breaks are so important, especially while working from home. After accomplishing a task, I usually walk to the kitchen to get some chilled water, or peep out of my window and chat with my neighborhood did for a while, allowing myself to reset.”
Seeking support from a mental health professional or employee assistance program is recommended if you are struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the other benefits of working from anywhere?
Working from anywhere is not for everyone. Some thrive in the office setup while some are able to find the balance and reap the benefits of the remote setup. If you’re still undecided, here are ten benefits you can enjoy when you ditch the office for an anywhere workspace: 10 Benefits of Working from Anywhere.”
- How can I stay focused while working outside the office?
Focus is critical to productivity, but working outside the traditional office setup can cause a lot of distractions. Knowing these ‘focus killers’ can help you address them. Read more about these in our article, Top 5 Focus Killers at Work.
Remote work — be it from home or from anywhere — is here to stay. Since the onset of the pandemic, remote work has increased six-fold and has been on an upward trajectory. This dramatic shift has enabled employees to work from anywhere, anytime — changing the face of the workforce.
Although it may seem like a dream come true for employees, working from anywhere can present its own set of challenges. In fact, work-from-anywhere employees may face more challenges than in-office employees.
Keep reading to know the common issues that work from anywhere employees face and how you can tackle them head-on.
Major Concerns Among New Remote Workers
Work from anywhere is no longer just a passing trend; it is the future of work.
Suhani Sachin Lad, HR Professional at Center for Creative Leadership, shares her thoughts:
“COVID-19 has directed us into a new work age, much like the internet did for the digital era. It’s a chance to consciously reassess whom we work with, where we work when we work, and how we work to establish scenarios in which everyone benefits.”
Although it has been practiced for a while, remote work still presents a number of concerns among employees. Here are a few areas of concern that new remote workers face:
- Lack of Resources. Compared to traditional office settings, remote workers often do not have access to the same equipment and technical support.
- Social Isolation. Isolation and feelings of loneliness are common among remote workers — especially for those who are accustomed to interacting with colleagues.
- Poor Work-life Balance. Transitioning to work from anywhere blurs the line between your place for work and for rest. This can lead to difficulty in balancing work and life.
Common Issues with Work From Anywhere & How to Solve Them
All challenges can be addressed with the right strategies and this is the same for work-from-anywhere concerns. Here are 12 common issues work from anywhere employees face and how to tackle them:
- Communication Difficulties
Make use of video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management software to stay in touch with your team and to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Ahmad Nawaz, Solutions Consultant at Tech Scalar, agrees to this, adding that:
“Effective communication is crucial when working remotely. I found that it’s important to be clear and concise, especially when you don’t have the opportunity to have face-to-face conversations.”
- Isolation and Loneliness
Isolation and loneliness can be difficult to deal with when working from home or any other remote location. To combat these feelings, you can try to create a sense of community and connection with your coworkers through virtual team-building activities and social events. This includes video calls, online games, virtual coffee breaks (or even virtual happy hours). These types of activities can help to foster relationships and create a sense of community among your colleagues.
- Time Management Challenges
Accountability is key in remote work. Take note of daily goals, create a schedule (and stick to it), and use time-tracking software to help you overcome time management challenges.
- Technical Issues
There are a few ways to solve technical issues during remote work. You can try troubleshooting the problem yourself by checking the system for updates, restarting the computer, or checking for any errors in the settings. If none of these solutions works, the best option is to reach out to your IT support for assistance. These experts will be able to provide more detailed instructions and guidance, and can even resources such as software and hardware upgrades to help minimize future technical issues.
- Internet Connectivity Issues
Remote workers are heavily reliant on connectivity. If you are encountering problems with your network, you can try moving to a different location, changing your internet service provider, or upgrading your internet plan. If troubleshooting the connectivity issue yourself doesn’t work, try reaching out to your IT support team for assistance.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Work-life Balance
To maintain a healthy work-life balance, you can try setting boundaries around your work time and taking breaks to rest and recharge. You can also try to incorporate physical activity, hobbies, and social activities into your daily routine.
- Lack of Support and Resources
Resources can be tricky for remote work. Do not hesitate to reach out to your manager or HR department. They most likely have resources available that you can access, such as additional training or advice. You can also try networking with others in your field or joining online forums or professional organizations that can provide valuable insight into your industry.
- Struggling with Motivation
The key to keeping motivation during remote work is knowing your goals. Set specific and achievable goals at the start of the day, and break them down into smaller steps. This can help you stay focused and on track. It’s also important to take breaks throughout the day and reward yourself for achieving your goals. Identify what motivates you, such as a break for a cup of tea or a walk, and don’t forget to plan those activities in your day.
- Difficulty in Collaborating with Team Members
Collaborating with colleagues can be challenging in remote work due to the logistical challenges of no face-to-face contact. To improve collaboration, it is important to plan out projects carefully and create clear expectations among your team. Productivity tools like shared project management software can also help facilitate collaboration in remote work settings.
- Managing Distractions
Distractions are everywhere — especially when you’re working remotely. One way to avoid distractions is to invest in noise-cancelling headphones or a white noise machine. You can also leverage your phone and email settings to cut out unnecessary distractions or set dedicated focus time.
- Maintaining Productivity
Maintaining productivity can be challenging for remote workers. To ensure productivity, it can be really helpful to establish a routine and create a dedicated workspace. Additionally, setting SMART goals and managing your time effectively can help you stay on track and stay productive.
- Limited Access to Company Resources
Understandably, remote workers may not have the same resources as those who work at the office. Do not hesitate to ask your manager or HR department for available equipment. If you need access to company resources while working remotely, you can try using remote access software, such as a VPN, to connect to your company’s network.
- Security Concerns
A remote work environment can raise the risk of a data breach or other cyber attack, especially on home networks.
Cybersecurity expert Karthikeyan Ramaswamy agrees and reminds remote workers that:
“Cyber attackers are increasingly exploiting vulnerabilities in our home networks, making it important to use strong passwords and keep our home routers up to date with the latest security patches.”
- Lack of Clear Direction
Direction comes mainly from your manager. Make sure to set regular check-ins or meeting with your supervisor to keep them posted on your goals and progress. This will give you an opportunity to get feedback on your work and make sure that you are on the right track. You can also use this time to ask any questions you have or bring up any concerns that you have about the project or team.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Company Culture
Company cultures are more challenging to maintain for remote work setups. Experts suggest holding virtual team-building activities, setting up communication channels, constant check-ups, and finding ways to celebrate company milestones and achievements.
- Disruptions due to Family and Personal Obligations
Family and personal obligations also become a challenge for remote workers, especially for those who have family members in the house during the workday, or children who need attention while working from home. Setting and communicating boundaries with family members can be helpful in this area.
- Lack of Separation between Work and Personal Life
Working from home (or anywhere) blurs the line between work and personal life. A healthy separation between work and personal life is important. Set boundaries around your work time and find a dedicated workspace to make sure that you maintain this separation.
- Limited Opportunities for Personal Development
The flexibility of working from home or anywhere provides a lot of focus on personal development and career growth. Look for learning opportunities in your field, enroll in training courses, and explore new technologies. You can also take advantage of networking events, webinars, and other virtual events to expand your professional network.
- Struggling with Time Zone Differences
Having colleagues in different time zones has become a norm with remote work.
Ezra Rosen, real estate agent at Sachs Realty, believes that borderless remote work is the future of work and encourages people to take advantage of the benefits of having colleagues or partners in different time zones:
“Taking advantage of time zone differences allows companies to extend their operations across continents 24/7, allowing them to make decisions faster and optimize their operations. Collaborating with partners in different time zones also gives organizations the opportunity to draw on different cultures and perspectives, leading to better outcomes.”
Tools such as project management software to keep track of tasks and deadlines, and being flexible and adaptable to accommodate different schedules are also helpful in managing time zone differences.
- Difficulty in Staying Organized
Setting a dedicated workspace with a comfortable desk and chair, adequate lighting, and minimal distractions can help you stay organized during remote work. Start your day by creating a to-do list to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Setting realistic goals for yourself can also be an effective way to stay organized while working remotely.
- Lack of In-Person Networking Opportunities
Remote work has limited opportunities for networking and personal development compared to traditional office environments. Combat these limitations by taking advantage of technology such as video conferencing platforms and online networking groups in platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other professionals in their field. You can also join groups or forums related to your industry or attend virtual events and conferences.
- Disruptions due to Unexpected Events or Emergencies
Disruptions from unexpected events or emergencies during remote work can be addressed by having a communication plan in place. This can include designated channels for emergency communication and clear instructions on who to contact and what steps to take in the event of an emergency. It is also important to have backup plans and contingencies in place, such as having remote access to important files and systems and being able to work from other different locations. It is also recommended to have constant open communication to help ensure that your team is on the same page and able to stay informed about any potential disruptions or emergencies.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Work Relationships
Work relationships can be harder to maintain for remote workers due to the lack of physical presence and in-person communication. Without the face-to-face interaction of the office, remote workers have to rely on digital communication methods, such as video conferencing and instant messaging, to stay connected with colleagues. Make sure you also maximize any opportunity to connect with your coworkers on a personal level, like virtual team-building activities.
- Limited Access to Company Support or Resources
To access company support or resources while working remotely, you can try reaching out to your manager or HR department, using remote access software to connect to your company’s network, and staying in touch with your team and colleagues for support and guidance.
- Struggling with Self-Motivation
Motivation is a common challenge among remote workers. To address this, set specific and achievable goals, find ways to make your work more meaningful and fulfilling, and seek out opportunities for learning and growth.
- Difficulty in Adapting to New Technologies
To improve your skills with new technologies, you can try seeking out training resources or online courses, asking for help or guidance from colleagues or IT support, and staying up to date with new developments in your industry.
- Struggling with Mental Health or Well-Being
To support your mental health and well-being while working remotely, learn to set boundaries around your work time, take breaks to rest and recharge, and incorporate physical activity, hobbies, and social activities into your daily routine.
Freelance academic writer Yogeshree emphasizes the importance of breaks, stating that:
“Breaks are so important, especially while working from home. After accomplishing a task, I usually walk to the kitchen to get some chilled water, or peep out of my window and chat with my neighborhood did for a while, allowing myself to reset.”
Seeking support from a mental health professional or employee assistance program is recommended if you are struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the other benefits of working from anywhere?
Working from anywhere is not for everyone. Some thrive in the office setup while some are able to find the balance and reap the benefits of the remote setup. If you’re still undecided, here are ten benefits you can enjoy when you ditch the office for an anywhere workspace: 10 Benefits of Working from Anywhere.”
- How can I stay focused while working outside the office?
Focus is critical to productivity, but working outside the traditional office setup can cause a lot of distractions. Knowing these ‘focus killers’ can help you address them. Read more about these in our article, Top 5 Focus Killers at Work.