The COVID-19 pandemic brought about many changes to the way we work, with one of the most significant being the rise of remote jobs. For many workers, the shift to remote work was a welcome change, offering flexibility, time savings, and a better work-life balance. However, as we fast forward four years later to 2024, job hunters are finding that fully remote positions are becoming increasingly scarce.
Keri Shinault is one of the many individuals who embraced remote work during the pandemic and never looked back. For her, the daily commute to her HR job was a nightmare, consuming two hours of her day that she could now spend with her children and pursuing her hobby of painting. The flexibility of remote work has allowed her to achieve a better work-life balance than ever before.
Unfortunately, the landscape of remote work has shifted, with fewer companies offering full-time remote positions. According to Forbes magazine, there has been a 23 percent decrease in listings for full-time remote work compared to the previous year. Instead, many companies are opting for a hybrid work model, with employees spending 3-4 days in the office and 1-2 days working from home. Some school districts, like North College Hill in Cincinnati, have even adopted a 4-day school week with Mondays designated as remote learning days.
Despite the decrease in fully remote job opportunities, there are still companies actively hiring remote workers in 2024. FlexJobs has compiled a list of the top companies offering remote positions, including Working Solutions, LiveOps, CVS Health, Kelly Services, United Health Group, Hopper, and Zillow. These companies provide opportunities for individuals like Shinault who prefer a mix of office and remote work.
However, the competition for fully remote jobs is fierce, with twice as many job seekers vying for these positions compared to available listings. As a result, individuals seeking fully remote work may need to put in extra effort to secure these coveted roles.
In conclusion, while the pandemic may have accelerated the acceptance of remote work, the landscape has evolved, and fully remote positions are becoming harder to come by. For those who value the flexibility and benefits of remote work, hybrid job options may offer a suitable compromise. By staying informed about companies still offering remote opportunities and being prepared to compete for these roles, individuals can navigate the changing job market and find a work arrangement that suits their needs.
