Remoteness or virtuality? A refined framework of individual skills needed for remote and virtual work

Abstract

The shift in the nature and dynamics of work during and after the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges of virtual work and remote work. Although these terms are often viewed as synonymous, we suggest the conditions of ‘remoteness’ and ‘virtuality’ are distinct, and the characteristics and skills associated with each of these differ. We differentiate between virtuality and remoteness and review individual skills associated with more effective virtual and remote work outcomes. We determine key themes of each work context and discuss theoretical and practical implications of distinguishing virtuality and remoteness. We also propose future research that calls attention to hybrid skills that combine elements of virtuality and remoteness. Building an understanding of the skills needed in each context can help organizations and educators intentionally and strategically train and develop individuals for the future of work.