In a world where work priorities are constantly evolving, it is essential for companies not only to recognize these changes but also to adopt them and stand out from their competition.
According to the Talent Trends 2024 report, conducted among leaders and Executive Committee members of organizations in 12 Latin American countries, including Colombia, companies today more than ever recognize the importance of maintaining a meaningful connection with their human talent amid this technological revolution.
Remote jobs, once a rare practice, have become a reality in organizations and companies worldwide. Although the hybrid model currently prevails over 100% home office, it is unlikely that full in-person work will regain dominance.
This trend, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, seems here to stay, with the number of remote workers expected to reach 35% of the workforce by 2025. In Colombia, 90% of people prefer a hybrid work model, with at least two days of remote work.
In line with this, 40% of workers in Latin America prefer to work remotely two to three days a week, while 30% aspire to work remotely five days a week. Only 14% of employees prefer to work entirely in person.
Current Trends in Remote Work
Remote work is booming and seems to have become the new norm. In fact, according to projections by The Economist, there could be over one billion remote workers by 2035.
The hybrid model is becoming increasingly popular. This scheme allows organizations to leverage the benefits of both approaches: face-to-face interaction and the flexibility of online work.
But what drives this trend? On one hand, organizations recognize that talent values the benefits of flexible work when planning their professional development. A recent study indicates that the ability to work 100% remotely can increase employees’ happiness by 20%.
At the same time, the emergence of digital tools that facilitate communication, collaboration, and coordination in remote environments has made organizations increasingly see remote work as a viable option.
But there is a key underlying factor: employees no longer stay in environments that do not provide essential benefits, and flexibility is one of the most valued today. Without this possibility, more than a third (34%) of the workforce in Latin America is considering new horizons and is willing to change jobs within the next 12 months.
Main Challenges and Concerns: Why Employees Are Looking to Change Jobs
The main reasons why Colombian employees consider changing jobs include:
- The search for better overall conditions, including physical, financial, emotional, and social aspects.
- The need for greater work flexibility, allows the option to work remotely.
- The opportunity to achieve an increase in total compensation.
So, what course of action should companies take? First, they should collaboratively create work schemes that align with the organization’s future and strategic vision. These strategies should reflect employees’ priorities, build trust, improve retention, and generate greater impact and value for the company.
What Are Some of the Advantages of Remote Work?
The benefits of working from home have been widely discussed. Contrary to initial beliefs, remote work increases productivity, as people feel more comfortable. Some of the most important advantages are:
Eliminates Commute Time
This reduces fatigue and stress and opens up the possibility of using that time for activities that positively impact people’s lives, such as exercising, having a calm lunch, meditating, or reading.
Reduces Sources of Stress
Studies show that remote work can reduce daily sources of stress by over 80%. This boosts creativity, productivity, and job satisfaction.
Promotes Diversity and Inclusion
Remote work allows the forming of work teams composed of people from different countries and cultures, enriching perspectives and creativity essential for organizations.
Provides Greater Flexibility
The flexibility of remote work helps employees better balance their family and work responsibilities, adjusting their schedules to their specific needs.
Analysis and Future Perspectives
Remote work is generating significant and profound changes in the work structures of a growing number of organizations worldwide. It is uncertain whether it will become the sole or dominant model in the future, but what is certain is that the diversity of work models will continue to grow in the coming years.
The existence of remote work has opened the door to creating work environments that ensure employee satisfaction. However, to ensure the success of this modality, it is essential to address the challenges that come with it.
The key lies in each organization choosing the alternative that best suits its reality, without overlooking the needs and preferences of its employees. The calculation is simple: without people willing to work in your company, there will be no company in the future.
