Teleworking abroad

Elon Musk recently condemned the remote work model. Could Tesla have had some management issues with this topic...?

If we look at current data, remote work is expanding more and more across the globe. It’s a confirmed trend—actually, even a growing need expressed by employees, whether executives or not. So, for any company, it’s worth paying close attention. Let’s take a look at its evolution worldwide:

Remote work around the world

France is leading the way in the development of remote work and, more broadly, in hybrid work models. And we’re not the only ones drawn to this trend. Many countries have followed suit, like Germany, the United States, or South Africa.

In a few figures...

Europe is the continent that has most embraced this new practice, particularly among neighboring countries like Spain or Germany.

A survey by the Jean Jaurès Foundation aimed to determine the ideal number of remote workdays desired by employees.

At least one day per week:

• 80% in Spain (+44 points compared to actual practice)
• 69% in Germany (+18 points)
• 74% in Italy (+24 points)

Average number of remote workdays desired:

• 2.7 in Spain
• 2.2 in Germany
• 2.4 in Italy

The United States is closely following Europe: “59% of Americans who can work remotely are still working 100% from home.”

Even though Elon Musk wants to impose his own approach, the American market is clearly following the global trend. Furthermore, the share of job postings offering remote work rose by about 7% between January 2020 and January 2021.

By contrast, Japan is one of the most reluctant countries when it comes to remote work. However, the Japanese had no choice but to reconsider their practices. According to a study by economist Toshihiro Okubo in 2020, only 6% of Japanese employees were working remotely before the crisis. By spring 2020, that number had reached 25%.

In contrast, South Africa is one of the countries that has strongly embraced remote work, despite cybersecurity risks. According to Cio Mag, following the COVID-19 crisis, 57% of South African organizations will continue working remotely on a flexible basis. 31% of them believe that remote work helped them gain more knowledge and resist social engineering attacks.

Standards

In other countries, remote work remains governed by standards similar to those in France. Whether in the United States or Germany, everyone is concerned with the proper implementation of this flexible model.

In the health context related to COVID-19, Luxembourg and Germany decided to extend their remote work tax agreement until June 30, 2022. Several U.S. states also established laws to regulate remote work, including New Jersey, which promotes this practice. All departments and authorities will be required to offer a remote work program of at least two business days per week depending on operational needs. Agencies must also offer flexible hours and/or alternative work schedules for employees who are not eligible for remote work, when operationally possible.

In France, remote work has become widespread, and a new trend is emerging: “Workation”. According to France Info, 35% of the 400 business leaders surveyed by OpinionWay for the startup Remoters—which facilitates employees’ temporary relocation abroad for remote work—are in favor of cross-border telecommuting.

What is Workation?

The principle is simple: if you want to travel while working remotely, it’s now possible! You simply ask your employer for permission to work 100% remotely while abroad. This way, you get a workspace adapted to your mobility—and this can last up to a year.

Caution: workation is not for everyone.

• First, you need a job that can be done entirely remotely.
• Then, your activity must not require any complex or non-transferable equipment. It’s essential to inform your employer about your remote “travel-work” plans in order to receive proper support.

Workation can be organized in different ways and requires a process of coordination with your company.

• First, you can apply for a digital nomad visa in the country you wish to visit.
• You’ll need a valid passport and proof of regular income. Applications can be made online, or through the relevant country’s embassy.
• It’s important to have a work-conducive environment and the necessary equipment to remain productive during your workation.

To meet these needs, several companies like Holiworking or Woolibaz now support remote work abroad. They offer dedicated workspaces and a local point of contact to facilitate integration. On the employer side, Holiworking and Woolibaz also assist with legal and administrative procedures—making it easier and more appealing to adopt this model.

The benefits of workation

Many companies now encourage workation, as it is said to have a positive impact on company culture. Jean Castex, former Prime Minister of France, even encouraged remote work abroad during the COVID crisis.

We can only observe its cultural and educational benefits—both for employees and for companies. Although workation has been around for a while, it’s become THE trend in recent years, accelerated by the pandemic.

Benefits for employees

Employees can gain numerous advantages from this experience—which we already know quite well.

Workers experience less stress: “67% of employees say it helped them mentally unwind.” (Source: passeport-photo.online)

And what better way to boost creativity than discovering new landscapes? In fact, 81% of those who tried this work model said they became more creative, and 86% said they were more productive at work. We might expect the opposite, but it’s actually a great way to break free from daily routines.

Additional benefits for companies

Workation gives more meaning to work: “84% of employees say they are more satisfied with their job” (passeport-photo.online). It also strengthens company culture and helps attract young talent, who increasingly seek flexibility and opportunities to travel.

Moreover, the most important point is cost reduction. Just like the general remote work model, accessing third spaces reduces the need for large office spaces—and significantly cuts rental costs.

Finally, remote work helps reduce absenteeism in companies—a factor that can heavily impact both operations and revenue.

In conclusion

Working remotely abroad is a growing topic in the workplace and is still only partially allowed. Yet, our perception of flexibility at work has evolved in France: many companies are interested in and investing in employee well-being.

The services provided by Holiworking and Woolibaz are proof that the workation trend is here to stay and keep growing.

#whereveryouare

Given the momentum behind workation and the many players supporting it, digital solutions like BeeMyFlex are essential.

At BeeMyFlex, we support this kind of flexibility, which promotes both personal well-being and workplace fulfillment. Business leaders, it’s crucial to embrace these new ways of working—your company needs them to stay competitive and attract top talent!

And guess what? Our BeeMyFlex solution follows you #whereveryouare! We're here to guide you through these transitions—whether managing remote work or simplifying internal processes. As workplace models constantly evolve, our app adapts with them to support you in the best way possible. So do the same... and take the opportunity to conquer the world! :)