Studying and working from home might not seem like a traditional work setting, however, in many employment settings, people are increasingly working in hybrid fashions, with some time in the workplace and some spent working remotely or at home. Some employment settings require small, geographically dispersed teams or individuals to work remotely from one another, perhaps in different countries and time zones.
As a result, being able to organise yourself and your home workspace in order to work productively and effectively requires a surprising number of employability skills.
Self-management & Initiative
- Remote work demands discipline, time management, and the ability to work independently.
- Employees often need to take initiative to solve problems or seek out resources without immediate supervision.
Digital Literacy
- Regular use of tools like Zoom, Teams, Slack, project management platforms (e.g., Trello, Asana), and cloud-based collaboration tools enhances technical proficiency.
- Navigating digital workflows and troubleshooting technical issues builds confidence and competence.
Communication Skills
- Remote workers must communicate clearly and effectively in writing (emails, chats, reports).
- Virtual meetings require active listening and concise verbal communication.
Adaptability & Resilience
- Adjusting to changing schedules, technical glitches, and evolving expectations builds flexibility.
- Managing isolation or distractions at home can strengthen emotional resilience.
Collaboration
- Remote teams often work across time zones and cultures, requiring thoughtful collaboration and empathy.
- Learning to build rapport and trust virtually is a valuable skill.
Problem-solving & Critical Thinking
- Without immediate access to colleagues or managers, remote workers often need to troubleshoot and make decisions independently.
Additional Skills That May Be Developed
- Project management: Managing tasks and deadlines remotely often involves using digital tools and planning workflows.
- Accountability: Remote work can heighten awareness of personal responsibility and output.
- Networking: Remote environments encourage proactive networking through virtual events, LinkedIn, and online communities.
So, do not underestimate what working or studying remotely or at home can contribute towards developing important employability skills.
