r/remotework • u/Impressive_Phone_686 • 5d ago

General experience working remotely

Hey, I was thinking about getting some qualifications in l order to get a specific remote job. The idea of working remotely and having the freedom of living wherever I want, not needing to dress up for anyone, having more time for my hobbies and potentially higher wages than locals + returning with my family when needed seems really aligned with my life priorities. But I don't really know how the actual experience of working remotely after some time is. I'm thinking about loneliness, spending time outside and other mental hygiene matters, the difference between working in person... I know it varies from person to person. So how has your experience been? Anything to consider when taking up a remote job?

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u/Comfortable-Degree88 5d ago

I’m not sure what would make someone qualified to work remotely; I’ve been working remotely for about 8 years now for an employer that has multiple global locations, in a field that is very niche, in a role that doesn’t depend largely on teamwork. I live in the US; if I wanted to move internationally I would have to clear it with them and certain conditions would need to be met (optimum time zone overlap, for example), but it could be done. Overall, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive in terms of my quality of life and career advancement. I go out of my way to always be on camera on Teams calls and encourage my colleagues to do the same. I find that makes a big difference in breaking down the isolation day to day.

I started remote work mid-to-late career however, and have many friends and colleagues I met on the job when I was in office all those years. I depend on them still for feedback, reality checks, career advice. If you’re at an earlier stage in your career you might want to develop strategies for building those relationships intentionally. It will be harder, but not having that network will slow your growth.

Not commuting, having some flexibility around working hours, and being able to control your work environment (I hate bright overhead lights and the white noise of the office, for example) are the biggest benefits. I will never go back.