Remote Work: Embrace A New Culture of Work!

The global remote work landscape has seen a dramatic change over the past two years. Today, global remote work options are limitless. International remote jobs allow workers the opportunity to live in one country and work in another without having to relocate. Embrace remote work: a new culture of work!

When working remotely and globally, it is important to understand the cultural differences and etiquette as these are critical elements required to conduct international and global business. Many successful ventures are borne out of the appreciation and respect for cultural diversity and norms.

Location and Salary

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has indicated that businesses now have the opportunity to select workers from a global pool and this may result in an adjustment to the local pay structures. One of the main benefits for employers is the reduced cost; for example, there are lower social security taxes for a worker living in another country.

The global remote work concept is not new as companies have for many years’ outsourced jobs abroad at reduced rates. However, this new shift could mean that companies that typically apply a salary differential based on location and the cost of living may simply choose not to continue to do so in the future. There is an increasing number of remote jobs available but workers should keep in mind that there could possibly be a negative salary / benefit adjustment when opting to work remotely.

Punctuality and Patience

Working in different time zones can be challenging and requires lots of flexibility and patience because different countries place different values on punctuality and time. Understanding the remote work country’s cultural norms and the communication standards relating to time will help you to maintain compliance to schedules and deadlines. Also, demonstrating cultural sensitivity will help to build strong relationships. Regardless of the time zone differences, punctuality is still very important to achieving goals.

Meeting Faux Pau: Body Language and Gestures

Meeting platforms such as Zoom, Teams, Skype and others, have allowed workers to communicate via video from any location. When attending online meetings with your remote work country, be especially aware of your body language and gestures. For example, in the United States a positive gesture such as using your fingers to form an “A-OK” sign is the symbol for the “evil eye” in some Middle Eastern countries. To avoid embarrassment or offending your employer, its best to familiarize yourself with the communication cues of the country with which you will be working.

Meeting Faux Pau: Attire

Video meetings from your home base require the same level of care and attention to detail as if you were meeting face-to face. So, remember to dress appropriately for your meetings; dress professionally. Also, the country you are working with may have different dress requirements for men and women. For example, some countries may require women to cover their hair and shoulders. Therefore, educate yourself on the cultural requirements of your remote work country.

Learning Activity You May Enjoy: Free course Remote Work Revolution offered by Harvard University.

T’ Tip: Stock up on your generosity and flexibility to remain successful in a dynamic remote work environment. Embrace remote work: a new culture of work!

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