Many millennials are now seeking more flexible jobs and paid holidays. However, this is not always feasible in many companies, especially if the employee is a contractor or a freelancer. For this reason, many millennials are now becoming digital nomads as they want to be able to be decision makers when it comes to the kind of jobs they want to take.
Also, as mobility and travel across countries becomes more feasible, employees are willing to relocate and step out of their comfort zone. It is estimated that by 2030 the hyper-connected, tech savvy generation (millennials) will make up 75% of the workforce.
But who are the digital nomads?
In general, digital nomads are professionals who prefer a location-independent lifestyle that allows them to travel and work anywhere in the world. Most of the time they are freelancers in search of online jobs. In some other instances their companies allow them to work remotely.
Here are nine powerful reasons you should hire a digital nomad:
1. Entrepreneurial
Being a digital nomad means that they took the initiative to take risks and start a new work-lifestyle. They are motivated to start projects on their own and find the solutions to any problem that might emerge. Due to the nature which obliges them to create an income in order to travel, they will analyse any decision that might result in failure. Digital nomads are independent and have high resiliency as they know that they are on their own and any mistake or delay might cost them time and money.
2. Negotiation skills
Digital nomads are in constant negotiation. From the fact that they have to market themselves in order to get online jobs, close deals online, or even bargain prices at a street market in Asia. Thanks to their constant travel, they have learned about cultural differences which are pivotal to closing contracts with international stakeholders.
3. Skills
Since deadlines are part of every job, digital nomads have mastered the art of keeping up with the different time zones so their work is always punctual. Further, they have learned to prioritise work to become more efficient at what they do.
4. Creative skills
They have traveled multiple destinations and the have seen many different customs that have broaden the right side of their brain. Digital nomads have learned different and creative ways to make their digital platforms attractive in order to call the attention of employers, users, or customers.
5. Technological skills
Their main tool for their work is their laptop, and, in many cases, other technological devices. Technology to them is a natural talent. It is part of their survival instinct.
6. Knowledgeable
As part of their digital life, they are knowledgeable about trends, world news, tax laws, local business, etc. They are a combination of a travel, political, and lawyer consultant. Digital nomads are independent and, therefore, must be aware of the current events in the world to make them more competitive. They are always well-informed.
7. Quick learners
Most of the digital nomads launched their career with only one expertise skill.This has forced them to learn new skills on the road and find resources that can help them solve any issues they encounter. No matter the problem, they always seem to have a helpful approach.
8. PR skills
Making yourself standout while working from behind a computer can be quite a difficult task. For this reason, digital nomads have excelled in outreaching and creating a global network. Such a network could be of great benefit to your business.
9. Writing skills
As the majority of their work is dealt online, it has become essential to them to have perfect writing skills in order to convey the message they want. They have learned to send messages that are clear, personalised, and persuasive.
Are you ready to hire a digital nomad?
When considering hiring digital nomads it can sometimes be uneasy to understand the potential benefits they can bring to your business. It should be noted that they are professionals who have survived and created projects on their own. They have mastered and learned skills (even many skills) that a conventional employee might not possess. The following infographic by Market Inspector outlines an overview of the most popular jobs, hubs, and co-working spaces that digital nomads concur.
About the author: Linda Bravo is a marketing and tourism enthusiast, currently working for Market-Inspector.co.uk, a B2B marketplace for businesses and institutions in Europe. She’s currently finishing an MBA at Texas A&M International University and a MSc at University of Girona.
