Getting Started With Remote work
This is a part of the March 2024 edition focused on the interview with NACOSS's new President and insights on remote working
Welcome to the March 2024 edition of The Computer Newsletter. This edition is focused on the exclusive interview with NACOSS's new President and insights on remote working.
This is the second article in the edition written by Oluwatosin Odebunmi.
Enjoy!
If you are given a task and can do it at your chosen location, you have worked remotely.
With this definition, it would be correct to say that most of us have worked remotely. For the sake of this piece, however, I will categorise remote working into three parts.
But before then, I want to debunk some myths about remote work.
Myths About Remote Work
Remote work is another kind of work: Not exactly true! For all types of work, either paid employment or self-employment, you are working to provide value to someone or a group of people. It is the same with remote work as well. The only difference here is that you are doing the work from your chosen location.
Remote is only for techies: Technology has helped increase remote working, but it doesn’t mean that only those working in core technology spaces like software development can work remotely. Today, a customer service representative can work from Nigeria for a company headquartered in the UK.
Remote work means working from home: This is also not true. Working remotely can mean working from anywhere you are most comfortable to work without distractions.
Remote work requires special equipment or training: I have worked remotely since 2017, and the most powerful tool I have used is a laptop. Now, this is possible because I’m a writer, and Google Docs and Workspace are two of the few tools I use every day. The truth here is that your skillset and not remote work will determine what tools or equipment you need.
Everyone loves (or hates) remote work: Everyone is different, so our needs and wants are different. I love working remotely, and if you don’t fancy it, that is also all right.
Types of Remote Work
Remote workers come in different forms, each with their own styles and preferences. Some work as freelancers, choosing when they work, while others are full-time employees.
In this article, we’ll discuss three types of remote workers.
Full-Time Remote Employees
Full-time remote employees are a vital part of today's workforce. They bring their skills and dedication to their jobs from their homes. Here are some key things about full-time remote workers:
Independence: They are good at starting work independently and managing their time and tasks.
Communication Skills: They must communicate well using digital tools to work with their team and managers.
Tech-Savvy: They are good at using digital tools to stay connected and do their work.
Productivity: They can keep up a high level of work and meet deadlines while working remotely.
Adaptability: They are flexible and can adjust to changes in how they work.
Full-time remote workers help their organisations succeed by doing quality work and keeping in touch with others even when they are far away.
Freelancers and Contract-Based Remote Workers
Freelancers and contract-based remote workers bring flexibility and special skills to remote work. They offer unique help on different projects. Here are some things about these workers:
Autonomy: Freelancers often work independently, managing their projects and time.
Specialised Skills: They use specific skills to solve different problems.
Flexibility: They can work on different tasks and projects, showing they have many skills.
Project-Based: They are hired for certain projects or tasks, not for long-term work.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Many freelancers are like entrepreneurs, always looking for new work and clients.
Freelancers and contract-based remote workers help organisations by offering their unique skills when needed, making projects successful with their flexibility and expertise.
Part-Time Remote Workers
Part-time remote workers are essential in the changing work world. They use their skills and knowledge while having a flexible work schedule. Here are some things about them:
Flexibility: They can work at times that suit them, balancing work with their personal life.
Task-focused: They focus on specific tasks or projects, helping the overall work without working full-time.
Collaboration: They must work well with others using virtual tools to make projects successful.
Time Management: They are good at managing their time to meet deadlines and do their work.
Cost-Effective: Part-time remote workers are a good way for organisations to get expertise without the cost of hiring full-time workers.
Part-time remote workers bring a good mix of flexibility and productivity, helping with projects and tasks while adapting to the needs of the modern workplace.
In the next edition, we will look into practical steps you can take to begin your journey as a remote worker. If you have questions, please leave a comment below. Thank you.
Read more in this March 2024 edition of the Computer Newsletter 🔻🔻