Impact of Remote Work on Career Growth of Employees

As remote work becomes the new normal in many companies, many of their employees still commute to the office. For most, it’s a matter of habit or feeling they are more productive in an in-office environment.

For others, working remotely can be a burden. They may worry about the impact of remote work on their career growth and professional development. Some companies still take the “out of office, out of promotion” approach. It can be difficult for many managers to be fair when evaluating coworkers they see daily and those they don’t.

But does remote work harm career growth? The truth is, it depends. The most significant difference lies in the type of company. Let’s discuss all the aspects of how remote work can affect career development.

Career growth when working remotely at remote-first companies

If you want to grow and advance in your desired field while working remotely, looking for remote-first companies is best.

Remote-first companies are designed with remote work in mind. These companies evaluate all employees based on their performance, not their presence. In these environments, everyone works remotely, which levels the playing field.

These companies often prioritize diversity and inclusivity. They are offering equal opportunities to all employees, regardless of location. This approach means that promotions and career growth are typically based on output and impact rather than time spent in the office.

Research shows that over 75% of remote workers report advancing in their remote-first company is easier. They believe it's because their contributions are more equally measured.

Career growth when working remotely at remote hybrid companies

Remote hybrid companies, where only some employees work in the office, can present challenges for growth. Most of the challenges are related to proximity bias. This bias states that in-office employees are more likely to be noticed and considered for promotions. As it is difficult to overcome, it can hinder the career growth of remote employees.

Research indicates that 51% of remote workers worry that being out of sight means they'll be overlooked for new opportunities. This fear is not unfounded, as many managers admit to treating employees differently due to the proximity bias. Companies that prefer their workers in-office may also state this to their employees as well.

Addressing and overcoming proximity bias is crucial in these companies. However, there are also steps you can take to stay visible and on track for career growth, regardless of where you work.

How can you grow professionally while working remotely?

Working remotely doesn't have to limit your professional development. You also don’t have to sacrifice professional growth and limit your job search to local companies where you can commute to the office. By taking proactive steps, you can continue to grow in your career, even from a distance.

Here are some practical steps you can take to ensure your growth won’t stop just because you prefer to work from home.

Talk to HR and set your career goals

Start by talking with your HR department about your career aspirations. Setting specific goals upfront helps both you and your employer understand what you’re aiming for.

Having your HR understand how you want to grow in the current role makes it easier in the long run. Working together with your company toward your career growth is a good first step. It makes it easier to track your progress and identify new growth opportunities.

Keep a record of your wins

However, just because you have the HR on board doesn’t mean they will prioritize your growth, especially in large teams. That’s why regularly documenting your achievements is essential.

Whether it’s a successful project, positive feedback from a client, or learning a new skill, try to keep a detailed track of your accomplishments. It ensures that you have concrete examples to share during performance reviews. This can help your managers understand you’re actively working on your professional growth.

Maintain a good relationship with your coworkers

Maintaining strong relationships with your colleagues is important when you're working remotely. While it can be difficult to overcome proximity bias, you can keep yourself available and engaged to remedy its effect.

Participate in regular check-ins. Try to be active in team discussions and offer support whenever possible. It can help you remain a visible and valuable team member.

Volunteer to lead different projects

It’s easy to get overlooked and for things to fall into the laps of your coworkers who are in the office. To remedy this and increase your visibility, you must be very proactive. You'll also need to volunteer to handle and manage projects whenever possible.

Taking initiative and leading projects can showcase your leadership skills and dedication. It’s a great way to show your capabilities and make a strong case for promotion or more responsibilities.

Participate in related virtual webinars, development courses, and training sessions

Improving your visibility while not filling an office chair should be your top priority. You shouldn't neglect your professional growth. Continuing to learn and develop your skills is crucial for career growth.

Use the time you save on commuting to learn new things and improve your skills. Attend webinars, enroll in courses, and participate in training sessions. Improving skills related to your field can help you stay current and competitive.

FAQ:

What is the impact of remote work on career management?

Remote work can influence career management depending on the company’s structure. In remote-first companies, growth is often based on performance. In hybrid setups, proximity bias may present challenges. However, proactive steps can help you stay on track for career growth.

Does remote work really increase productivity?

Yes, many remote workers find they are more productive outside of the traditional office environment. Without the usual office distractions, they can focus better and manage their time more effectively. Ultimately, this often leads to increased output.

Why is office work better than remote work?

For some, office work offers clearer boundaries between personal and professional life. For others, it helps build relationships and in-person collaboration. However, the best environment often depends on individual preferences and the specific nature of the job.