The rise of the ‘anywhere worker’

The trend of the ‘anywhere worker’ is gaining momentum, according to a recent Opinium survey of 2,000 business travellers in the UK, the US, Canada and Australia.

The survey, commissioned by World Travel Protection, a global travel risk management organisation, revealed that 34% of business travellers want the flexibility to work from any location. Furthermore, 17% even identify as an ‘anywhere worker’.

One in eight (13%) of global respondents plan to work from a different country for at least a month or more while 12% are planning a ‘hush’ or ‘quiet’ vacation, where they work remotely from a different location without informing their employer.

The ability to work from anywhere is becoming increasingly important, with 13% of workers saying they would quit their job if this option was not available – a figure that jumps to 17% among those aged 18 to 34.

Businesses are starting to recognise this shift in working culture. Almost one in four (24%) allow employees to work from anywhere, with 19% actively encouraging this.

However, the survey also reveals a lack of clear policies: only 21% of global respondents say their company has clear guidelines on where employees can and cannot work.

Around 15% of global workers also say they worry their employers are using tracking software to monitor their activity while working remotely.

Kate Fitzpatrick, Security Director EMEA at World Travel Protection, said: “The survey findings reveal a growing desire among employees to break free from traditional office constraints. For those who can work remotely, it’s a benefit we’re not willing to give up. We’ve moved beyond simply working from home – now, we’re taking our laptops to far-flung destinations. Companies that fail to align with this growing trend risk losing key talent.

“However, we mustn’t forget that all travel comes with risk and it’s essential that proper precautions are taken to maximise the safety of employees. Travelling for business generally means you are at least covered on your employer’s insurance and emergency assistance. If something goes wrong and your employer has not given permission for you to work remotely, their insurance may not cover you,” she said.

World Travel Protection recently released research on how business travel impacts the mental health of UK business travellers.