Remote work provides distinct benefits, particularly for women. Here’s how to maintain job security and thrive while enjoying the flexibility of working from any location.

What’s the future of remote work? For those who prefer fully remote or hybrid positions, the recent trend of CEOs enforcing a return to the office full-time is concerning.

Leaders like Amazon's Andy Jassy and Elon Musk have mandated that employees return to the office five days a week, a shift echoed by major banks such as Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan Chase.

Despite this, many individuals—60% of Americans—prefer at least a hybrid role, and 37% desire fully remote work, as noted in a recent report from a staffing research firm Robert Half. If you find yourself among them, Stanford Professor of Economics Nick Bloom suggests ways to impress your supervisors and advance in your career. Here are our top recommendations.

Synchronize with Your Team's Schedule

In hybrid workplaces, employees often have the freedom to choose their in-office days. It’s crucial to select wisely to maximize face-to-face interactions with colleagues and managers.

For instance, if your teammates work in the office several times a week while you work remotely, you might miss important meetings. Bloom advises being in sync with your team; if you wish to work from home four days a week, seek a role where others share that schedule.

Prioritize Your Performance (It Matters Most)

In a traditional office, time spent at your desk can influence evaluations. However, when working remotely, your performance stands as the sole measure of success. Make sure to meet deadlines and deliver on your commitments, as there are no informal advantages to compensate for underperformance.

For managers with remote employees, Bloom suggests emphasizing “performance management.” You might tell your employee, “You’re working from home Friday. You have these tasks to complete. It’s up to you how you manage your time, but ensure you fulfill your responsibilities, even if that means working evenings or weekends.” Focus on achievements, not just response times, for optimal results.

Select an Essential Career Path

According to the Pew Research Center, about 14% of U.S. workers are now fully remote. While remote work offers advantages, it also means facing competition from global talent.

To excel in a remote role, Bloom recommends pursuing creative positions and focusing on tasks that AI won’t easily replicate in the near future. Additionally, maintaining occasional in-person meetings can provide a unique advantage that AI cannot offer.

Conclusion: Embrace the Future of Remote Work

Remote and hybrid work have become standard for many, and Bloom emphasizes that this trend is likely here to stay. It’s essential to ensure that your performance while working from home is just as strong as it would be in a formal office setting.