DEV Community

Cover image for Remote Work is Valued Less in 2023
Philip John Basile
Philip John Basile

Posted on • Updated on

Remote Work is Valued Less in 2023

The argument that remote work justifies lower pay rates is increasingly contentious, especially in our modern era, where technology has blurred the lines between the traditional office space and the home. This perspective is laughable to many, largely because it disregards the value of work itself. Remote or not, the effort, skill, time, and dedication required to perform a task does not diminish. Remote work may demand additional skills such as self-discipline, adaptability, and technical acumen to work effectively from home. This point of view reflects the conviction that the value of work should not be tied to a physical location but to the quality and quantity of the work produced.

Furthermore, the argument seems to dismiss that remote work is not necessarily a "benefit" for the employee but also a cost-saving measure for the employer. Companies save on various overheads when employees work remotely, including rent, utilities, office supplies, commuting benefits, and more. Also, research has indicated that remote workers often work longer hours than their in-office counterparts. Considering these aspects, it is clear why many people find the idea of lowering pay rates for remote work not only amusing but also profoundly unfair. The focus should be on paying what the work is worth and recognizing the value and contribution of the employee, irrespective of where they clock in their hours.

With that said. I am looking for work, but I won't work for peanuts. Give me the fancy cashews! πŸ˜€

If you enjoy my technology-focused articles and insights and wish to support my work, feel free to visit my Ko-fi page at https://ko-fi.com/philipjohnbasile. Every coffee you buy me helps keep the tech wisdom flowing and allows me to continue sharing valuable content with our community. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Top comments (6)

Collapse
 
jmfayard profile image
Jean-Michel πŸ•΅πŸ»β€β™‚οΈ Fayard • Edited

Companies save on various overheads when employees work remotely, including rent, utilities, office supplies, commuting benefits, and more

Actually from what I've heard it's the exact contrary that happens and that explains why companies have a backlsash against remote work.

What happens is that most companies were not prepared for remote work when COVID happened, never learned how to change the company itself to do it properly.

More importantly many companies have long term leases on their big buildings. Often they rent the large building for 10 years, especially in the US, and if developers don't work there but at home, they still pay for it and it's a pure waste.

None of this is our fault and I am a big fan of remote work done properly, but it's important to understand the other side point of view.

Collapse
 
zangassis profile image
Assis Zang

I agree with you Jean, but what can you expect from a company that leases a building for ten years? This company probably has a serious financial management problem, even if it gets a tempting price when closing the lease year, it's a huge risk

Collapse
 
philipjohnbasile profile image
Philip John Basile

they're paying for it regardless if people are there or not. I'm sure theyre doing fancy math with it too.

Collapse
 
odopeter profile image
Odo Peter Ebere

To add to this, remote jobs aids recruiters to access a broader pool of talent outside their geographic region, thereby attracting top-notch candidates worldwide.

Also, it increases job satisfaction and employee morale, which in turn, leads to enhanced commitment, engagement, and retention. I must say, remote work is one of the most effective ways to work in the 21st century.

With that said. I am looking for work, I can work for peanuts for the experience. And also for the fancy cashews! πŸ˜€

Collapse
 
michaeltharrington profile image
Michael Tharrington

Word up! Don't settle for nothing less than the cashews Philip, you're worth it!

Collapse
 
overflow profile image
overFlow

You got me at fancy cashews.