Written by: Eric Handler

Should companies expand job searches for entirely remote workers?

Much of today’s corporate workforce can perform their day-to-day job from the comfort of their own home, and this was made apparent as the COVID-19 pandemic forced people to work remotely. 

Now, two years later, people who have enjoyed this luxury see it as a requirement before ever taking another job. This gives the illusion to new job candidates that they can apply to work anywhere in the world.

And companies may also be quick to jump on this trend and allow people to apply from across the map. 

But does that mean every company should expand its job searches to be more accommodating for remote workers? Here are some things to consider before including it in a job description.

How many jobs are truly remote?

There are certain jobs that can accommodate workers from all over the world and different time zones–there are jobs in IT, government or international business where this is generally accepted. But, there are jobs such as sales or marketing where someone is required to have an understanding of the local market they work in. 

So, before expanding your search to include anyone and everyone, consider:

1.) Can someone from anywhere perform the duties of this role?

2.) Would the role be better served by someone who is local?

Be wary of laws and restrictions

Even if you’re expanding job searches to other states, each state has its own set of laws and regulations around how you will be taxed for the work you do. 

If candidates work from a state anywhere other than where your company is based, the privilege of remote work could cost them even more.

There are currently laws from five states that require remote workers to be double-taxed on the same income. 

Out-of-state telecommuting may bring unexpected legal liability. Employees working from home in a state different from the assigned office could subject the employer to sales tax, income tax, and, in some cases, local or city gross receipts taxes that they were not subject to before.

Office is more than just the desk where you work

What do you consider to be “the office?” Is it really just the room in your house where you get your work done? Is it a cubicle with three walls bordering your coworkers?

Just because you aren’t sitting in a shared office space with your coworkers and employees doesn’t mean you’re not collaborating together, having working sessions, parties and undergoing training and development together.

The office is more than just a desk where you work. It’s the people you interact with and the things you’re able to accomplish together.  

So, before you consider expanding your search to anyone, you need to consider the impact hiring someone who is truly remote can have on the rest of your workforce and the team camaraderie. 

If you’re looking to make a new hire and still aren’t sure whether or not you want to include entirely remote applicants into the job pool, then remember there are new challenges you will have to overcome if you want to effectively hire someone you will not work in person.