Remote Work vs. Telework - What's the Difference?

What Is the Difference Between Remote Work and Telework?

Remote work vs. telework — we often hear the two terms being used interchangeably. But they aren’t the same. So, what is telework and how is it different from remote work?

Remote work

Remote work, also known as “work from anywhere,” is a flexible way of working which allows employees to work from any remote location as long as they have stable internet connectivity.

Remote employees typically don’t reside near their main office but still work closely with the people within the organization. 

Moreover, remote workers and their supervisors may find that they rarely (or perhaps never) meet in person. Finally, remote workers may benefit from increased flexibility around when and how they log on and complete their work. Since remote work offers this flexibility it is often a great option for travelers, students, or those who can’t commit to the standard job hours.

Remote work allows you to create a comfortable working situation by enabling you to establish a workspace that serves you and your lifestyle. It also enables remote employees to work around their other commitments like studying, traveling, family responsibilities etc.

Telework

Teleworking allows employees to carry out their duties and responsibilities from an offsite location other than the official workplace. It could involve working from home, another branch office, café, bookstore, or even a coworking space.

Though often away from the office, a teleworker is different from a remote employee because there occasionally some in-person office attendance required — though this is not always the case. Another key difference is that a teleworker is often geographically closer to the main office location than a remote worker. 

Teleworking is an ideal option for tasks or jobs that require writing, research, reading, data analysis, computer work, telemarketing, etc.

Remote vs. telework - Which is better?

The difference between remote work vs. telework may seem small, but there are some distinct differences. Depending on your lifestyle, responsibilities, career, and geographic location, you’ll need to decide whether remote or telework is right for you. 

Parents or full-time caregivers may decide that telework suits them because it allows them to be geographically connected to work while also having increased flexibility. Digital nomads, on the other hand, may find that a remote situation is better suited to their lifestyle. 

Learn more about flexible working and how Wrike can help your team to access its full potential here.