Remote Working for Software Developers

With as many as 66% of IT managers believing that Brexit will further impact a shortage of software professionals, remote working software developers are in high demand.

In Europe, the number of remote workers grew to 9.8% of the workforce in 2018, many of this number are technology professionals using today’s cloud tools for communication just as seamless as being in an adjoining office.

A 2019 salary survey of technology professionals found that 21% would prefer to work remotely, and full time. The technology skills shortage means that software developers can expect better salaries and take advantage of more flexible working arrangements, including choosing to work completely remotely, if they wish.

Why is remote working better?

A caveat first, remote working is only better for those disciplined and focused enough to be able to ignore the comforts or distractions of their home-office.

Remote software developers can take a pick of projects

Software professionals can be hired on a per-project, part-time, or full-time basis. More and more companies are happy to offer the same longevity and benefits as office-based staff receive. You can be full-time, salaried, and remote. With the advent of digital transformation in the workplace, more so for technology companies, there is no longer any drop in productivity or communication from using remote systems. Cloud technologies and project management platforms enable smooth collaboration and efficient task delivery.

The high demand for software developers means this skill set can take a pick of projects UK wide and even further afield.

Improved work-life balance

Working remotely might mean you can choose your own hours, be available for your family when they need you, or take downtime when you are not productive. Often, if your work is excellent and your project hours are achieved, companies are flexible.

Remote working can mean a happier worker, less stress, and better health. Remote workers can choose where they live in the world, whether that’s in the country, in the city, or by the ocean, they can wear what they like to work and eat when they want to.

Time and money savings

Sometimes salaries can be higher and sometimes lower, depending on their role and skills. However, remote workers benefit from avoiding often lengthy, exasperating, and costly commutes. Why would a software developer want to commute into London, for example, when they can do the same job from their home-office? Even a journey of one hour to work equates to 10 hours family or personal time lost per week.

Increased productivity

A survey by Connect Solutions discovered that 77% of both part-time and full-time remote workers questioned said they were more productive, 30% said they achieved more in less time, compared to in-house working. Remote workers also take less time off sick, choosing instead to carry on or to just change-up their weeks working hours. Other studies have found that remote workers can devote up to 6-7 more hours per week than on-site staff.

Company culture and workplace rifts are no longer a concern

Remote working is a way to avoid trying to fit a corporate culture or needing to get along with incompatible colleagues. Though some may find remote working lonely, others benefit from being able to focus entirely on work without the worry of office politics or even micromanaging supervisors.

Popular professions for remote working, like software developers, engineers, analysts and designers, are usually trusted to work remotely with little supervision, suiting these technology professionals who love to focus on their jobs.

The growing demand for software developers is driven by digital transformation, the progress of cloud computing platforms, enterprise developments, the growth of emerging technologies and the use of applications. This market is expected to reach a value of upwards of $188.9 billion creating more remote working opportunities for software developers. 

Are you looking for a remote software developer role or want to hire remote developers for your team? You can get in touch with us at info@silvertonhr.co.uk to discuss further.