Companies are offering more flexibilty in the post-pandemic workforce. And while taking advantage of this is important, it is more important to know what you are getting when you apply for a role that offers either option.

The first step is for you, the job seeker, to understand the difference between Remote and Hybrid.

• Remote jobs may be performed from any location. To apply for a remote position, ensure that the designated “office hours” align with your schedule, and you possess the legal right to work in the country where the company’s offices are situated
• Hybrid jobs typically involve attending a physical location approximately 1–3 times per week. Consider applying for hybrid positions only if the office is situated in a city that you can readily commute to on a regular basis.

Usually, employers know whether they need a hybrid or remote employee, and these conditions do not generally change with time. If you hope a role will shift from hybrid to remote, or vice versa, it’s crucial to:

• Clearly discuss this during the interview process.
• Request that any changes be explicitly noted in the offer letter by the employer.

While you might have a clear understanding of the difference, remote and hybrid roles are still new for some companies and I have had clients that mistake one for the other. When applying for such positions, make sure you discuss these expectations during the job interview process. This will ensure you both have clarity on how frequently physical presence is expected and helps you align with the employer’s expectations of you.