Since remote work became a real alternative, everyone believes that a computer is the only way to perform tasks from home. However, technology has come a long way in the past 10 years providing us with mobile devices which are better than some not-so-old computers. Nowadays you have a mobile version of almost any software used for work.
In a world where almost 80% of the global population has a mobile device, it is not surprising that many are looking for ways to use them instead of desktop computers. With remote work becoming the new normal, smartphones are also part of this new environment providing more freedom for employees. Companies are starting to see mobile users as a fresh source of talent due to their accessibility and flexibility.
This change comes as a result of the main role that smartphones are taking when it comes to working remotely, eclipsing other competitors such as tablets or laptops.
An optional tool or a complete alternative?
Nextiva has recollected evidence on how popular smartphones have become for remote workers. In their latest poll, they found that a surprising 89% of the participants confirmed having one or more work-related apps in their cellphones too. More than half of them also admitted writing all of their communications on the phone, leaving the computer reserved only for actual tasks.
Certain fields seem to take things to the next level. Surveyed people who worked iin marketing or IT confirmed that sometimes up to 45% of their tasks were done on their mobile devices rather than their computers. Interestingly enough, smartphones were ahead of tablets when it came to working, being rated as the 2nd most popular alternative, ahead of other popular choices.
With new mobile devices having better and better specs that can easily compete with current entry-level computers, it is no wonder why many choose to use them as their main hub. This trend might become a regular choice by 2040 according to most smartphone enthusiasts.
Popular Tools Adapted for a Smartphone for Remote Work
Slack, Zoom, Trello, Asana, and many others are companies who are specialize in remote teams have taken note of this and have upgraded their apps in 2020. The vast majority of them operate just as well as their desktop counterparts, providing as much freedom to talk or share information. No more uncomfortable interfaces or limited tools as most companies have opted to give a full makeover to their tools to make them comfortable and powerful in smartphones.
On the other hand, Personal devices are often a soft alert when it comes to working remotely as sometimes sensitive information gets stored in them and potentially puts it at risk. When it comes to mobile phones, we know how vulnerable these can be to hacks or simply human error. However, some alternatives can provide help to avoid such negative situations. Whether you choose to encrypt your data, provide remote keys, or similar options, there is always a way to keep work information safe.
A unique window of opportunity
Many HR managers have seen this whole development and have opted to create new alternatives that benefit from this mobile revolution. As suggested by some recruiting websites, there are more and more positions appearing in their lists whose only requirement is having a smartphone.
The same can be said for virtual assistants who now have more windows of opportunity as they can start their careers with just a mobile phone. Most of the tasks related to these positions are, of course, aligned to common activities done on the phone such as calling or texting, but they do provide an alternative for those whiteout experiences in other more complex tasks.
Existing positions also benefit greatly from this mindset as they have more opportunities to optimize their time as they can now do simpler tasks when outside the office. Finally, if you have any open slots or wish to jump into the complex world of remote work, we at Virtrify know how to help you switch gears more efficiently.
Source: https://www.nextiva.com/blog/remote-office-phone-systems.html
Source: https://swiftsystems.com/guides-tips/should-you-allow-remote-work-on-personal-devices/
Source: https://alphaefficiency.com/4-great-tips-for-mobile-ninjas-how-to-work-remotely/
Source: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/9-jobs-you-can-do-entirely-on-your-phone
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