The idea of working remotely or working as a virtual employee is becoming popular by the minute, especially in software engineering jobs. I got the chance to work as a virtual software developer in 2017 for a whole year. It wasn’t a big deal for me because I had already worked in the office the previous year, but was taking up the virtual position because I had to return back to school.
For a lot of people that don’t get the chance to start up physically in the office as I did, working virtually can be a bit scary and here’s why:
- Working in a different country, it may be difficult to manage the different time zones.
- Communication. If you’re not constantly communicating with your team members, it’s hard to keep up.
- You might work round the clock and you might not work at all sometimes, there’s no balance.
- It could actually get lonely.
However, you could still make the best out of remote jobs because there are some benefits.
How do I make the best of my remote job?
Let’s put aside the fact that remote jobs could be a bit scary at first. They are also really amazing and I’d list why.
- You don’t have to deal with traffic. In some parts of the world, traffic could keep you on the road for hours and then you get to your 9-5 job exhausted and unable to achieve much. A virtual (remote) software developer doesn’t have this problem.
- Stress level improves. According to a University of Minnesota study, flexible work reduces stress and increases job satisfaction.
- You are more productive. No stress, no traffic, you are in a better state of mind to do great work and also meet deadlines.
- You have freedom and time for yourself. You are virtual. You do not have to be in a place for 7 – 8 hours. You can multitask and engage in other things you like to do ( remember to find a balance so it doesn’t disrupt your job ).
- You can schedule your time however you want to. If you’re a night person, you do not have to work during the day because that’s the traditional 9 – 5 way (some exceptions obviously), but in general, you have the freedom to schedule the day the way you want to.
Just one fear. Do remote developers grow in their career or just keep jumping between jobs?
For a while, I wondered if remote developers have a career growth plan, or they enjoy the perks and keep moving. I also wondered if growing would require moving to the physical office eventually (if one exists). Luckily, I got my answers yesterday.
It depends on the culture of the company and also on the individual. If you care about your individual growth, you communicate that constantly and if you are of very good work ethic, it could come to you. If it doesn’t, ask for it. There’s really nothing wrong in asking.
Working remotely is becoming very popular in 2018. It also shows that the developer has a very good sense of discipline and responsibility because, under no physical supervision, they are able to turn in their deliverables as at when due.
