Until recently, it was unusual for employees to work overseas as digital nomads. However, since the onset of the pandemic, when many businesses transitioned to fully remote work for employees, the trend has surged, resulting in a threefold increase in the number of digital nomads from 2019 to 2022.
Ready to explore the world as a digital worker? It’s not as simple as it sounds. Here are some key issues you need to address with your employer before you start packing.
Michel Koopman, a CEO and founder of CxO Coaching and 2Swell, a fully remote company with global employees based in Miami, suggests starting with the basic question of working hours. Knowing what your employer expects is crucial, he says.
With over 30 years of experience as a digital nomad working abroad on every continent, Koopman brings a unique perspective to the table. “Personally, I have been working this way since I can remember,” he says. However, he acknowledges that most people face a learning curve and advises nomads to be prepared to make sacrifices, as they are the ones opting to travel across various time zones.
Working in different time zones, when to clock in and considering potential travel expenses
Unless the agreement is to work eight hours whenever convenient for you, you might need to adjust your schedule to collaborate with your team. “Your colleagues will expect a certain level of timely response,” says Koopman, who has collaborated with more than half of the Fortune 500 companies. As for your clients, they won’t care that you are in a different time zone. But face-to-face interaction is still valuable: will your company expect occasional office visits, and will they cover the travel costs?
“Even in a fully virtual work environment, everyone can agree that there is value in personal interaction,” Koopman explains. If your boss requires in-person meetings during the year, clarify upfront who will cover the expenses.
Examine the fine print on your health care policy
Review your health care policy and inquire about coverage. Koopman emphasizes that while most companies offer coverage, it may not extend internationally. Get clarity from your employer about liability to understand the risks you are undertaking while working abroad.
Determine your tech needs and requirements
Confirm whether you will be expected to maintain a U.S. phone number—a significant cost, according to Koopman. Fully understand everything related to technology. For instance, will the company be responsible if you lose your laptop, even though they cannot control your work environment? Koopman also recommends asking about accessing sensitive data and the communication platforms that will be used. Overall, you should have confidence in your company’s technological readiness to support its traveling employees.
Lay the groundwork before working abroad
Since a healthy culture with engaged employees enhances productivity, Koopman advises waiting a year before embracing a digital nomad lifestyle to establish relationships in the workplace. From his years of experience, he has observed that managers are more traditional, and managing digital nomads, who are typically independent, requires training to facilitate the transition. Building a foundation of trust is key.
