A whopping two in three Kiwis work from home at least part of the time, according to Logitech’s recent research. Powered by Logitech’s Casa Pop-Up Desk, this four-part series looks at the new way Kiwis are working and the innovations that could change everything. 

Part two explores the pros and cons of remote working and how to make it work for you. 

In 2022, Silicon Valley start-up Airbnb made headlines by adopting a groundbreaking policy: employees could work from anywhere in the world. This bold move marked a significant shift in remote work culture and has since inspired other companies, including One NZ here in Aotearoa, to embrace similar policies.

Fast forward to 2024, and remote work is not just a trend but a fundamental part of the professional landscape. But what are the actual benefits of this new way of working?

Take, for example, Carly Koemptgen, an American who decided to spend 2023 working remotely from New Zealand and Australia.

Carly entered the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, so remote work was her default. When the opportunity arose to work for a US company from the southern hemisphere, she jumped on it.

“I was hired for my first full-time role remotely, with the idea that someday we might go back to the office. I just never ended up going back into an office,” she says.

For Carly, the greatest advantage of remote work is the increased flexibility and control it offers. “I can design my schedule to ensure all my tasks are completed while also having the freedom to pursue hobbies and interests outside of work, which is incredibly important to me,” she explains.

“Overall, remote work has given me a much better work-life balance.”

Additionally, Carly’s remote work arrangement allows her to fully explore New Zealand and Australia, an exciting first-time adventure for her.

Read more: Love it or loathe it? The new way of working is hybrid

Many workplaces that allow employees to work from anywhere cap their policy at 20 days. The Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk is the perfect companion with a battery life that lasts up to three weeks – exactly 20 days.

Carly believes that working remotely not only enhances productivity but also fosters a healthier work-life balance – something that is particularly significant for younger generations entering the workforce.

Logitech’s market research, which surveyed over 1,500 workers across New Zealand and Australia, reveals that hybrid work arrangements are most popular among younger employees.

An impressive 71% of Gen Z workers are embracing hybrid models, and 48% often work away from their desks. Among various careers, creatives (77%), data analysts (74%), and sales/new business professionals (71%) are leading the charge in adopting hybrid work practices.

“Our generation is increasingly recognising the importance of having rich lives outside of work and not letting our jobs define us,” Carly notes.

However, Carly also points out that this new way of working is not without its challenges. One major drawback she experiences 3is a sense of disconnection from her colleagues. “While remote work makes collaboration possible, there are times when I miss the simplicity of popping over to someone’s desk for a quick chat,” she explains.

If you’re a remote worker feeling disconnected, consider the Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk. This versatile, all-in-one desk is designed for mobility, allowing you to create a productive workspace wherever you are.

Despite these challenges, Carly remains optimistic about the future of remote work. With advancements in technology, such as Logitech’s Casa Pop-Up Desk, which offers a convenient and adaptable workspace solution, the future of remote work looks promising.