Tag Archives: work at home

SARS, Employers and Remote Workers

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The South African National Treasury’s budget proposals for February 2023 have highlighted intentions to harmonize obligations for both local and foreign employers, particularly affecting remote workers. This move by the Treasury, in coordination with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), could lead to foreign employers being mandated to register as “employers” with SARS. This change is motivated by the growing global trend of remote work, which has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It allows employers from different parts of the world to engage South African workers for remote positions, providing mutual benefits.

Currently, there exist disparities in legislation concerning the obligations of foreign employers. The proposed amendments aim to standardize the registration requirements for foreign employers, ensuring parity between resident and foreign employers. Foreign employers who previously didn’t have a “representative employer” in South Africa to handle remuneration and deductions might be required to comply with PAYE deductions, the 1% skills development levy (SDL), and Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) contributions.

Practical implications arise from these changes. Foreign employers may lack certain credentials necessary for SARS registration, such as a CIPC registration number or a South African bank account. In response, experts suggest employing an Employer of Record (EOR) company that acts as the in-country employer, managing payroll compliance obligations on behalf of the foreign entity. This arrangement ensures adherence to local employment laws and tax regulations while allowing the foreign employer to maintain control over day-to-day supervision and work-related decisions.

The proposed alignment aims to streamline the regulatory landscape for remote workers and foreign employers in South Africa. The draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill for 2023, expected in July, will likely provide more specific wording for these amendments. This effort to establish consistent rules for both resident and foreign employers reflects the changing dynamics of the global workforce, driven by the surge in remote work opportunities.

The proposed changes to South African employment regulations seek to address the growing prevalence of remote work by establishing uniform obligations for foreign and local employers. While these changes pose practical challenges, the adoption of an EOR arrangement could serve as a viable solution for foreign employers seeking to navigate the new compliance landscape efficiently. The envisioned amendments represent a broader global trend in adapting legislation to the realities of remote work in the digital age.

Source: BusinessTech South Africa

Future Work at Home Outlook for Australians

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The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a massive shift in the global workforce, with many employees transitioning to remote work. In Australia, this shift has led to significant changes in work patterns and attitudes towards remote work compared to working in an office.

Before the pandemic, a Melbourne property surveyor employed 180 staff who worked in the office every day at 9 a.m. Now, employees work from home, allowing for more flexible schedules. For instance, drone operator Nicholas Coomber can start his fieldwork as early as 7:30 a.m., affording him more family time and the ability to pick up his children from daycare earlier.

While corporate leaders such as Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase and Elon Musk of Tesla and Twitter call for a return to in-office work, Australian unions are pushing for remote work (WFH) to become the norm. Unions have taken legal action against Australia’s largest bank and are working with the government to advocate for continued remote work opportunities.

Australia has a history of embracing labor market changes during crises, often setting precedents for other English-speaking countries. For example, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) faced a challenge from its staff who took the bank to an industrial tribunal to contest a directive requiring office work half the time. Similarly, National Australia Bank (NAB) reached an agreement with a union allowing employees to request WFH, while Canada’s federal workers lacked similar protections.

In the European Union, lawmakers are updating telework protections to align with the post-lockdown economy. However, the demand for WFH remains strong globally. A survey found that employees with WFH experience prefer two days of remote work per week, twice as much as what bosses prefer.

Despite the benefits for employees, there’s a potential for conflict between workers and employers over remote work arrangements. The Australia Institute’s Jim Stanford noted that rising unemployment could shift bargaining power toward employers, potentially leading to a “historic confrontation.”

This shift to remote work has already impacted office landlords, with a notable decrease in demand for office space. Around one-sixth of Australian capital city office space currently stands vacant due to reduced in-person attendance.

Overall, the article highlights the evolving dynamics of remote work in Australia, showcasing the contrast between employee preferences and employer expectations, and the potential for long-term changes in work patterns and labor market dynamics.

Source: Byron Kaye

The Alarming Impact of “Loud Quitting” on Workforce Engagement and Global Economy

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BNN Bloomberg reports that, in a recent Gallup survey, it has come to light that a significant number of workers are engaging in what they call “loud quitting” – showing up for work but actively disengaging and taking actions to harm their organizations. This phenomenon is responsible for a staggering 8.8 trillion dollars in losses to the global economy, amounting to nine percent of the global GDP.

While “quiet quitters” still have a chance of being inspired or motivated to become more productive, the situation is more concerning with “loud quitters.” These employees have become a lost cause, as they demonstrate outright opposition to leadership and the organization.

Managers are faced with the daunting task of dealing with this disengagement crisis, as nearly 60 percent of workers worldwide admitted to quietly quitting their jobs. This leaves less than a quarter of the workforce who are actively engaged and contributing positively to their workplaces.

It’s not just a matter of job dissatisfaction; the lack of engagement is making people miserable, and it is taking a severe toll on the global economy. Addressing this issue and finding ways to re-engage disheartened employees is vital for organizations and economies to thrive in the long run.

London Workers Reluctant to Return to Office

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A recent survey conducted by Bloomberg Intelligence reveals that nearly 75% of London workers prefer the flexibility of remote work and would contemplate quitting their jobs rather than giving it up.

The study, which included responses from 500 employees, highlights that 40% of respondents would require a raise of at least 16% to reconsider returning to the office.

The motivation behind the survey was to gain insights into the employees’ perspective on remote work, especially considering the significant impact it has on various industries, such as real estate with multinational tenants in prime spaces.

The survey’s results indicate a strong desire for remote work among London workers, with 95% already receiving work from home options from their employers.

Moreover, 70% of respondents believe that remote work is here to stay, becoming a permanent fixture in the workplace.

The data also shows a shift in attitudes towards remote work across different age groups. In June 2022, only 44% of the older generation favored permanent work from home arrangements, but that number has now risen to 77%, bringing it closer to the preferences of younger workers.

Various factors contribute to this trend. The survey reveals that reasons for employees preferring remote work include issues such as costly commutes, rail strikes, and overall convenience. Additionally, the opportunity for salary increases is a key consideration for those considering a return to the office. However, networking and knowledge transfer for younger staff are crucial aspects that motivate some employees to come back to the physical office.

The survey’s findings strongly suggest that remote work is likely to remain a dominant feature of London’s workforce. The allure of flexibility, cost-saving benefits, and the ongoing pandemic’s influence have solidified the preference for remote work, indicating a substantial cultural shift in the city’s working lifestyle.

Workers Compete to Work from Home

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The competition for work-from-home jobs has become intense in certain cities across the United States. According to LinkedIn’s Workforce Insights Report, Bend, Oregon, is one of the top cities where remote job applications have significantly increased. Nearly 75% of job applications in Bend are for remote roles, compared to just 42% two years ago. This trend is mirrored in other regions as well.

Nationally, only 11% of open positions on LinkedIn offer remote work, but they attract almost half of the total job applications as of May. The top ten cities with the highest interest in work-from-home jobs, based on the share of applications for remote-specific openings, are Bend, Oregon; Asheville, North Carolina; Wilmington, North Carolina; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Spokane-Coeur d’Alene, Washington; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Medford-Grants Pass, Oregon; North Port-Sarasota, Florida; Wausau-Stevens Point, Wisconsin; and Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, Florida.

These cities, often referred to as “Zoom towns,” experienced an influx of residents during the COVID-19 pandemic when remote work became widespread. Bend, in particular, attracted tech workers from Silicon Valley and Seattle. However, as several big tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Apple increase their return-to-office requirements, remote work opportunities may become scarcer. Individuals who relocated during the pandemic might have to let go of their newfound flexibility or explore alternative options.

The report suggests that if workers in these cities are unable to secure remote jobs, there may be an increase in entrepreneurship, a return to larger metropolitan areas, or a shift towards hybrid or in-office work. The competitive job market is likely to reshape the dynamics of remote work in these regions.

Source: CNBC

Customer Service Representative for Sticker Mule

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Customer Service Representative for Sticker Mule in Denver/Boulder, CO

More about the Job:

Why you’ll like working here:
1. Customers love our service and tell us all the time!
2. We offer flexibility in your work day.
3. We work at a sustainable pace to foster a non-stressful work environment.
4. We enjoy monthly team outings at local breweries and restaurants.

Job description
Respond to customer inquiries via email in a clear, concise and comprehensive manner. We only provide support via email and social media (primarily Twitter) so it’s imperative that you have exceptional writing skills.

Responsibilities
1. Respond to customer inquiries via email in a clear, concise and comprehensive manner.
2. Assist and engage with customers on social media.
3. Assist in writing and maintaining FAQs.
4. Suggest opportunities to make customers happier to our product team.
5. Suggest opportunities to improve the quality and efficiency of our customer service operation.

Requirements
1. Must be in the Boulder / Denver area
2. Exceptional writing skills (be clear & concise)
3. Must live in the Denver/Boulder area.

Apply now. Jobs go fast!
https://www.stickermule.com/jobs?job=f21c5822-08ce-4ef8-b402-c605ad310fe7&title=customer-service-agent

Data Entry/Database Updating for Dalton Wade Real Estate Group

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Data Entry/Database Updating for Dalton Wade Real Estate Group

Some Job Information:

Dalton Wade Real Estate Group is looking for a work at home, data entry individual to set up property alerts for our home buying leads. Hours are flexible and can fit your schedule.

Looking for someone with a home office, a desktop computer and who is fast using a computer.

Compensation $18/hour.

Please send resume and cover letter.

https://providence.craigslist.org/ofc/6172051632.html

CLICK HERE to view this job opportunity (the link will be in the Google result). Apply now. Jobs go fast!

Processing Representative for Vivint Solar

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Processing Representative for
Vivint Solar in Lehi, UT

More about the Job:

At Vivint Solar, we’re changing the way people generate and consume power. We believe that people should have a choice between using outdated, dirty technologies and using innovative, clean solutions to produce the energy they use to live every day. That’s why we’re making it easy for millions of people nationwide to choose to go solar. Simply stated, we’re doing work that really makes a difference.

To undertake such a huge task, we need a Processing Representative that will be a solid contributor within the Processing department. We are looking for a Processing Representative that is ready to jump in and help our fast growing business grow even faster.

You’ll change the world by…

Processing all incoming contracts and other paperwork for the company
Filling out applications for Renewable Energy Credits and Grants, and tracking a systems progress through these steps
This job involves regular and recurring work situations of moderate to intense levels of complexity

You’ll do that with your…

The individual in this position must have excellent customer service skills with a high level of patience in dealing with high volume of documents
Must also be extremely detail-oriented
This position operates from specific guidelines and directions; the individual will receive a moderate level of supervision

You’ll know you’re ready if you…

Have a high school diploma

One more thing…you’ll be required to submit to a criminal history check, drug screening, and obtain clearance from the state based upon the state requirements.

https://careers-vivintsolar.icims.com/jobs/6338/processing-representative-%28work-from-home%29/job?mode=job&iis=Job+Board+-+Indeed&iisn=Indeed.com&mobile=false&width=1000&height=500&bga=true&needsRedirect=false&jan1offset=-420&jun1offset=-420
Apply now. Jobs go fast!

Reservation Sales Agent for Alaska Airlines

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Reservation Sales Agent for
Alaska Airlines in Chandler, AZ

More about the Job:

Responsible for assisting customers with travel requests by answering incoming calls and matching the features and benefits of Alaska Airlines to the needs of the passengers

Answer customer’s inquiries regarding all aspects of their travel on Alaska Airlines or one of our travel partners

Ability to handle customer questions, complaints, and inquiries with the highest degree of courtesy and professionalism to resolve customer issues with first call resolution

Assist customers with technical website and mobile navigation needs

Make new reservations and change existing reservations on scheduled domestic and international flights

Perform both computer and inbound/outbound telephone related tasks

Other duties as assigned

Embody the Alaska Spirit and conducts oneself with Professionalism, Integrity, Resourcefulness, and Caring

https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Alaska-Airlines/jobs
Apply now. Jobs go fast!

Reservation Sales Agent for Pleasant Holidays, LLC

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Reservation Sales Agent for
Pleasant Holidays, LLC in Westlake Village, CA

More about the Job:

A minimum of 6 months in customer service or sales
Excellent communication skills, both verbally and written, to interact with customers, employees and management
Organizational skills and the ability to multi-task
Ability to retain and organize large amounts of information
Computer proficiency and knowledge of business applications
Must be able to work independently and be self motivated
Availability to work variable shifts including weekends
College degree or equivalent work history What’s in it for you? Here are some of the benefits to working at Pleasant Holidays:

$14.50 per hour for first year including training.*
Commission eligible after 6 months with unlimited earning potential; most earn between $45,000 – $75,000 annually* *
Paid training full time, 40 hours per week, and will last 5 to 6 consecutive weeks* *
Time off benefits – Paid holidays, paid vacation and sick time* *
Medical, dental, vision and flexible spending accounts*

Tuition Reimbursement Program*
401(k) with potential for company match* *
Rewards & Incentives – Free trips, cash and prizes* *
Opportunity to work from home after six months, based on performance and tenure* *
Employee referral incentives* *
Excellent travel discounts for employees, friends and family* *
Discounted movie and theme park tickets* *
Career advancement opportunities Apply today to start your career in the exciting and rewarding travel industry!*

https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Pleasant-Holidays/jobs/Reservation-Sales-Agent-337d44892aa51fc0
Apply now. Jobs go fast!