Brits increasingly want to work abroad
Research from global benefits platform Perkbox has found that almost two-thirds of UK workers (62 per cent) would consider moving abroad to work remotely
What's more, the survey of over 2,000 full-time workers found that a third of those who would consider moving abroad to work remotely (36 per cent) are willing to leave their current job to achieve this. Several factors are contributing to this desire, with the top three being: worries around the rising cost of living (21 per cent), losing faith in the government and direction of the country (15 per cent), and a desire to pursue a more nomadic lifestyle that blends work, travel and holiday (14 per cent).
Whilst this sentiment simmers amongst the workforce, managers are increasingly beginning to see action being taken on it. Perkbox also surveyed over 500 business leaders across the UK, finding that over a quarter (28 per cent) are already reporting an increase in requests for international working.
Furthermore, this research showed that business leaders are supportive of the move, with three-quarters (75 per cent) trusting their people to work productively from anywhere.
However, as this trend develops, managers must be mindful of the potential friction and stresses growing within teams spread across multiple locations. The research highlighted early warning signs amongst the UK workforce when it comes to working with colleagues based in other countries:
- Almost half (48 per cent) will pay closer attention to fully remote colleagues, to check they're remaining productive
- 57 per cent expect colleagues to work within the same hours they do, no matter the location
- A third (34 per cent) expect their employer to pay lower salaries to colleagues based in countries with lower costs of living
- 50 per cent would raise it with their management if colleagues based abroad are contributing less.
With this in mind, it is now essential that HR and business leaders set expectations and create a consistent employee experience, no matter their location.
"A unifying culture across borders will help employees build stronger relationships with their teams and managers," said Gautam Sahgal, CEO at Perkbox. "This type of model is only going to become more mainstream; so, the challenge and opportunity for HR teams lies in creating an environment where everyone feels part of a shared purpose or goal, whilst still having their individual requirements acknowledged and catered to."