Remote workers have a bit of a reputation for being the most independent workers around. That’s understandable considering the nature of their work — many spend hours on end alone and focussed on their work, after all.
But no person is an island. And that goes for remote workers too. Most still work on teams, even if not in the same working space. Having meaningful connections can make a difference in their day-to-day lives and their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Do remote workers need mentors?
Yes, many remote workers can benefit from having a mentor they can turn to for advice, guidance and support.
Remote workers can benefit from having a mentor. (Photo by Alla Serebrina on Deposit Photos)
When you’ve been working alone for days on end, it can be nice to talk to someone who’s been in your shoes and who can help you feel less stir crazy. And this is even more valuable given the current uncertain environment surrounding flexible work.
Just think. Right now, there are companies pushing for an end to remote work. Home workers feel fearful about their job security. Many feel too guilty to even call in sick, feeling pressured to always be available because of the “privilege” of working remotely.
In such times, it can be nice to speak with someone who has already been through similar ropes and who can give you trusted advice on what to do.
Who should be your remote work mentor?
When looking for a mentor, you may prefer someone who’s older (or younger!) or at least who has more experience navigating the world of remote work than you.
More experienced remote workers can be mentors for others. (Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels)
Home working and other forms of flexible work may be new to most Brits, thanks to the pandemic. But these forms of working also existed before the pandemic came along.
There are working people who know what it was like to work remotely in the UK “before it was cool.” and perhaps during a time when it was even more stigmatised than it is now. You may choose to join online networking or support groups, where you can find more experienced remote workers to connect with.
Or, if you’re new to remote work and just joined your first remote work team, you may look to one of your more tenured colleagues for guidance. Chances are they’ve put in at least a few more years of remote work than you, and you can lean on what they’ve learnt.
Do you need a mentor even if you don’t work remotely (yet)?
If you’re still working in a traditional, in-person job, but you want to work remotely, you may still consider getting a remote work mentor. A more experienced remote worker can help guide you to legitimate work-from-home jobs that suit you perfectly.
There are many resources available for remote workers in the UK, and you don’t have to wait until you land a remote job to take advantage of them.
Find the latest remote jobs in the USA via RemoteWorker.co.uk.
