Remote Working in the UK: An Overview
Recently, remote work has evolved from being as rare as hen’s teeth, to every Sue, Phil and Karen wanting you to work from home. Professionals in the UK are embracing the flexibility and freedom it offers. Traditional office settings are becoming rare right now, so knowing what to expect from remote working and making sure you’re ready with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this new world of work is so important.
Finding Remote Work Opportunities
Job hunting is a very different animal in 2023, you can’t just pop in to a place and drop off your CV, or even email it to a prospective employer anymore. If you want to work from home, or anywhere other than a traditional workplace, you need to do it on the many online platforms that cater specifically to remote job seekers, or indeed on social media. Websites such as Remote.co, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn offer tonnes of opportunities in a variety of industries. Tailor your search filters to match your skills and preferences.
Building a professional network is as important in the remote world as it is in a physical office. Use virtual networking events, industry-specific forums, and social media platforms to connect with like-minded professionals and potential employers. Watch webinars, participate in online discussions and showcase your expertise to stand out in the virtual crowd.
Preparing for Remote Interviews
Remote interviews require a different set of skills compared to traditional face-to-face meetings. Make it a seamless interview by familiarising yourself with video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Test your equipment, choose a quiet and well-lit space, and dress professionally to create a great first impression.
Remote work often demands a high level of adaptability and collaboration. During interviews, share examples of successful remote projects or highlight instances where you effectively collaborated with team members across different locations. Emphasise your ability to thrive in a virtual environment and your commitment to clear communication.
Work-Life Balance in a Remote Setting
One of the perks of remote work is the ability to tailor your workspace to your preferences. Designate a specific area in your home for work, free from distractions. This not only helps you to be more productive, but also helps in mentally switching between work and personal life. Set clear boundaries with family members or housemates to minimise interruptions during work hours. Take advantage of the flexibility of working from home, to create a schedule that aligns with your natural energy patterns. Whether you're a morning person or night owl, tailor your work hours to optimise your productivity and well-being.
A positive aspect of remote working in the UK is the cost of living in urban business hubs, especially London, and what has always been described as a ‘north-south divide’. If you can persuade your employer to let you work remotely you can generally afford to live somewhere far pleasanter and more spacious for your money, than the typical commuter belt. The remote work revolution has helped to revitalise rural and small town locations where employment opportunities were fewer in the past, and were facing economic decline, such as Britain’s many attractive coastal locations. A BBC reporter dubbed places like this ‘Zoom Towns’, in the post pandemic era, to reflect an influx of remote working permanent residents.
Keeping a healthy work-life balance is more than just setting working hours. Prioritise self-care by making sure you take regular breaks, physical exercise and add moments of relaxation into your daily routine. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help combat stress, making sure you can have a sustainable and fulfilling remote work experience.
As the world of work changes, adapting to this new way of working becomes a necessity for anyone who wants to work remotely in the UK. By finding remote work opportunities, mastering the art of virtual interviews and prioritising a better work-life balance, we can thrive in this world of working from anywhere.
If you have questions about any aspect of remote working, you can ask in our Remote Work UK Facebook group, we’re always happy to help.
