Remote work has brought about a whole new world of jargon that can be confusing for those who are new to the world of telecommuting. Here’s a list of some common remote work terms and their definitions to help you navigate this brave new world!
Zoom fatigue – the feeling you get when you’ve spent so much time on video calls that you feel like you’ve become a pixelated version of yourself.
Digital nomad – a workaholic with wanderlust, armed with a laptop and an insatiable thirst for adventure.
WFH (Work From Home) – the golden ticket to pyjama parties, pet snuggles, and the ultimate commute (from your bed to your desk).
VPN (Virtual Private Network) – the superhero cape of remote workers, protecting their online identity and giving them access to the company bat cave from anywhere in the world.
Telecommute – when your daily commute is as simple as walking from your bedroom to your kitchen.
Remote-first – a culture that champions the power of pyjamas and productivity, where “pants required” is just a suggestion.
BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) – a policy that allows employees to use their personal gadgets for work, giving new meaning to the phrase “I’m bringing my work home with me.”
Pyjama productivity – the belief that you can be just as productive, if not more so, in your cosy pyjamas as you would be in a stiff suit or skirt.
Pants-optional policy – the dream dress code for those who love to keep it casual, just be sure to keep your webcam waist up-friendly!
The Glossary
A – Async Awesome: No more 9-5 grind! In Async Awesome, you get to work on your own terms and at a time that suits your lifestyle best, whether it’s midnight or noon!
B – Blend-it-like-Beckham Team: This team is a mix of in-office and remote workers. You can work in your pyjamas or put on your best work attire – whatever floats your boat!
C – Close-Knit Crew: A team that’s based out of one office, making it easier to pop over to your co-worker’s desk for a quick chat or a coffee break.
Coworking: “Co-workers? More like Co-friends!” In a coworking setup, you get to share an office space with people from different companies, which means more opportunities to share ideas, equipment, and maybe even snacks!
Coworking Space: “The place to be for all your coworking needs!” This is a designated office space where you can mingle with other professionals from different companies while working on your own projects.
Compressed Working Week: “Work hard, play hard, rest harder!” With a compressed working week, you get to condense your work into fewer days, which means more time for fun activities and relaxation.
D – Digital Wanderer: A remote worker who travels to different locations to work. You can be typing away on your laptop while soaking up the sun at a beach or sitting at a cosy café in a foreign country!
Digital Work: “The future is now!” Digital work is work that is done primarily through online tools, making it easier to work remotely or in a hybrid setting.
Distributed Company: “One company, many locations!” In a distributed company, employees work from different locations, allowing the company to tap into talent from all around the world.
Distributed Team: “Teamwork makes the dream work, no matter where you are!” A distributed team is made up of employees who work from multiple locations, coming together virtually to get the job done.
E – Employer of Record: “Making global talent accessible to all!” This is a third-party organization that helps companies pay their international employees while complying with local laws and regulations.
F – Freedom-Fueled Flexibility: With flexible working, you have the freedom to choose where and when you work, making it easier to balance work and personal life.
Flexible Work Week: “The best of both worlds!” A flexible workweek allows you to split your time between the office and remote work, giving you the chance to enjoy the benefits of both.
Future of Work: “Buckle up, folks, it’s going to be a wild ride!” The future of work refers to the new trends and changes in the way we work, which were accelerated by the pandemic.
G – Global Guru: A company that hires employees from all around the world, allowing for a diverse and talented workforce.
H – Hot Desking: “Mix and match your workspace like a pro!” Hot desking is a system that allows you to use different desks on an as-needed basis, making it easier to maximize space and work alongside different people.
Hybrid First: “Where flexibility is the norm!” In a hybrid first company, employees split their time between the office and remote work, making it easier to work in a way that suits them best.
Hybrid Meeting: “Wherever you are, we’ll be there too!” A hybrid meeting combines in-person and virtual participants, making it easier to connect with people no matter where they are.
Hybrid Remote (Company): “The best of both worlds!” In a hybrid remote company, employees can work in the office or remotely, giving them the flexibility to choose where they work.
Hybrid Working: “Why choose when you can have it all?” With hybrid working, you
So there you have it, a glossary of remote work terms to help you navigate this exciting new world. Don’t be afraid to embrace the jargon and embrace the freedom and flexibility that comes with remote work!
