Remote work has undergone significant changes over the years, evolving from an emergency solution during the COVID-19 pandemic to a structured hybrid model in many companies.
With debates about its effectiveness continuing globally, Malta is also seeing its fair share of challenges and opportunities.
Alan Cini, Managing Director at Rocksteady Digital Agency Ltd, Broadwing Ltd, and Muovo, and Marc Chase, Co-Founder and Chief Global Strategist at MeetBee, shared their insights with WhosWho.mt on the current state and future of remote work in Malta.
Shifting trends in remote work
Globally, companies are navigating the complexities of remote and hybrid work.
According to Mr Cini, “the widespread adoption of remote or hybrid work has now led to a new emerging trend that reveals many companies are urging employees to return to the office, aiming to increase efficiency and improve work culture across departments.” He cited major players like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Meta, which have mandated in-office attendance for two or three days per week.
In Malta, flexible work arrangements remain a priority for employees, even as companies adapt to new economic realities. Mr Cini noted, “candidates in Malta still prioritise flexible work options when choosing employers, influenced by generational expectations and technological advancements.”
Recruitment and productivity challenges
The prevalence of remote work has significantly influenced the recruitment process. Mr Cini highlighted that talent assessment solutions, including psychometric testing, are increasingly being used to address inefficiencies, weakened corporate culture, and poor communication. These tools help companies assess candidates’ capacity for independent work and their preferences for recognition and work structure.
However, recruiting for in-office roles presents challenges. “Remote work can be ‘frustrating and disorienting’ for many leaders, as their managerial skills were never developed for managing remotely,” Mr Cini said.
He emphasised the importance of refining leadership techniques to meet the demands of remote or hybrid teams.
The role of technology
Marc Chase shared how technology has enabled the adoption of flexible work arrangements. “Collaboration-based technology has absolutely changed the work landscape and was greatly accelerated because of the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.
Platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet have allowed companies to hire talent globally, while AI-driven tools have enhanced virtual meetings with features like live translations and meeting summaries.
Mr Chase noted, however, that the effectiveness of these technologies depends on leadership: “Encouraging people to turn on their cameras when meeting virtually, facilitating inclusive and collaborative discussions, and utilising complementary chat systems effectively contribute to greater work flexibility and productivity.”
Resistance to remote work
While technology has enabled flexibility, resistance remains in some industries and among certain leaders. Mr Chase observed, “the greatest resistance to remote work is arguably not from any specific industry or sector but more from leaders who refuse to adapt to today’s evolving work landscape.”
He argued that resistance should be balanced with Malta’s needs to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance overall wellness.
Opportunities in Malta’s smaller job market
Malta’s unique job market presents both challenges and advantages. Mr Cini highlighted that leveraging tools like Zoom, Asana, and Jira can improve workplace coordination. Moreover, initiatives promoting work-life balance can help combat burnout and ensure employee engagement.
He concluded, “While challenges exist, the smaller job market in Malta also presents unique opportunities for companies willing to innovate and adapt to the remote work landscape.”
Mr Chase added that leaders in Malta need to take a holistic view when deciding on work arrangements. “Balancing the need to meet in-person should always be based on the intention of why people are getting together in the first place,” he said, suggesting that evidence-based decisions are crucial for the future of work flexibility.
The future of remote work in Malta
Both experts agree that the future of remote work in Malta hinges on adaptability and innovation.
Mr Cini’s organisation, Broadwing Ltd, has embraced remote work, with over 50 per cent of its workforce now operating remotely across Europe. Meanwhile, Mr Chase’s MeetBee has experienced consistent growth by catering to industries that value flexible work arrangements.
Main Image:
