Remote work adoption in the world

The results obtained by companies will be a decisive factor in incorporating definitive telework models worldwide.

Post available in spanish

The health emergency caused by Covid-19 and the need for confinement has given rise to an opportunity. Thus, being able to demonstrate the benefits of telework for companies and workers.

In times of difficulty, remote work seems to be the ideal answer. It is allowing to guarantee the continuity of operations of companies around the world. However, experts point out that this trend is here to stay.

 

Remote work in the world

Remote work has been around for decades. However, the advance of digitalization and the coronavirus health crisis expanded and consolidated its use. In the context of social distancing, telecommuting the world became a viable solution. It was able to sustain jobs and economic activities.

In 2019 only 3% of workers practiced this modality in Latin America and the Caribbean. That number increased to between 10% and 35% during the pandemic.

Job offers and the demand for job skills are also changing. A study by employment site Indeed shows that the number of job postings mentioning “remote work” has nearly tripled from an average of just 2.5% in January 2020 to almost 7.5% by September 2021. Ireland, Spain, and the UK record the most significant increases. Meanwhile, career site Ladders predicts that 25% of all professional jobs in North America will be remote by the end of 2022.

Amazon as a benchmark

A clear example that remote work in the world is here to stay is none other than the giant Amazon.

Source: Work News

The company founded by Jeff Bezos joins the decision of other large firms such as IBM or Sun Microsystems.  They have reduced their real estate costs. Because of relying on teleworking, they have achieved savings of 50 and 68 million dollars, respectively.

The average cost per physical office workstation is about $17,000 per year. As a result, large companies with large workforces are evaluating these costs and are returning to telecommuting. Although, in this case, it is voluntary and without the pressure of a pandemic,

Up to five office buildings (with an option for a sixth) were planned for construction at the Bellevue site. Here, construction has been halted due to Amazon’s decision to re-evaluate its workspace needs.

 

Cover image source: Grupo IOE