It’s more than ‘same skills, different environment’. Remote work does require a lot of the same skills as are needed in a traditional working environment, but there are additional skills that can help people (and businesses) thrive. Here are some reasons you’ll want to start prioritizing skill development for your remote team.

Reason 1: Future proofing your employees means future proofing your business

If you hadn’t noticed it this year, technological advancements are going fast. In November 2022, Ai wasn’t as hot a topic as it is now. New jobs have formed and others have gone, and other tools and companies are popping up constantly. Future proofing your employees equals future proofing your business.

Reason 2: Employee retention

One of the things that is the same in remote and in-office companies, is that employees leave if they aren’t being supported or invested in. And the numbers don’t lie: 94% of employees are willing to stay working there for longer if a company invests in helping them learn.

Offering skill development opportunities can increase job satisfaction and loyalty, which is crucial in the remote work setting where switching jobs may be as easy as changing a Wi-Fi connection. 

Reason 3: You need self-managing professionals

We need to stop thinking remote work is for everyone. It is absolutely necessary that employees are proficient in self-management. In offices, there’s often more support and accountability, because people around you are working as well. At home, it’s often easier to slip into something comfortable and think ‘I’ll do that later’. You need employees who are able to plan, focus, and execute. Investing in these skills reduces the need for micro-management and increases productivity and initiative among employees.