The remote first approach is a work organization that places remote work at the heart of its operational model. This approach has gained popularity in recent years with the health crisis but also with technological advances, which allow Employees to work from anywhere in France and around the world. The concepts of full remote or office first have also emerged over the same period.
In a remote first organization, remote work is not simply tolerated, it is encouraged, prioritized, and integrated into the company culture. This philosophy, present in both startups and large groups, is based on the belief that remote work can be just as effective, if not more so, than working in the office. The goal is to create a work environment where Employees have the freedom, each week, to choose the location that best suits their productivity, while maintaining high levels of collaboration and performance to improve the Employee experience.
The characteristics of remote first are evident at several levels within the company. First of all, Employees are equipped with a range of tools and technologies that facilitate remote work.
This may include hybrid work management solutions that offer different options depending on the number of Employees. There may also be cloud services for storing and sharing documents, online communication applications for virtual meetings, project management tools for tracking tasks, deadlines, or appointments with clients... The list is long.
A key aspect of remote first is geographical flexibility. In such an organization, Employees are not limited by the need to travel to the office. Depending on the remote work charter, they can perform their job from anywhere, from their home, a coworking space, or even on the other side of the world. This flexibility has transformed the recruitment processes for new Employees for companies. Employers are no longer restricted to their geographical region, which allows them to access a larger, even global, talent pool.
Remote first has a significant impact on company culture. It promotes greater autonomy and responsibility among Employees. Employees are encouraged to manage their own time and organize their work to achieve the set objectives. This autonomy reinforces the feeling of trust between employers and Employees, allowing for a better balance between professional and personal life.
However, the transition to remote first is not limited to technology and culture. It also has an impact on the management and processes of the company. Managers must be able to establish clear communication methods to ensure that their team is aligned and productive. This management includes setting up regular online meetings, using project tracking tools to monitor progress, and creating a culture of transparency where information and objectives are accessible to all.
The remote first approach is a revolution in the way companies approach remote work. The company places remote work at the heart of its culture and operations, promoting flexibility, productivity, and access to a global talent pool. It is an evolution that adapts to the realities of our time, where technology makes it possible to work more flexibly, without compromising quality or efficiency.