As Chicago’s employment situation evolves, remote work continues to shape how professionals and companies operate here in the Windy City.
According to a recent Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) study, almost 33% of jobs in the Chicagoland area could be done remotely.
Today, we discuss remote work trends specific to Chicago and its suburbs, including Park Ridge, Skokie, and Glenview.
Chicago-Specific Remote Work Statistics:
A Robert Half survey found that 28% of Chicago companies offer fully remote positions, and 34% are transitioning to hybrid models. However, there is no specific definition of “hybrid”. Reporting to the office could be weekly, monthly, or annually. Could you flip a coin? It’s important to ask.
According to Gartner, 82% of company leaders plan to allow employees to work remotely, at least occasionally.
A PwC survey found that 83% of employers say the shift to remote work has been successful. That’s promising, especially given that Amazon and other tech companies require a return to the office (RTO).
Upwork’s “Future Workforce Report” estimates that more than 36 million Americans will be working remotely by 2025, an 87% increase from before the pandemic.
Chicago’s Growing Tech Scene and Remote Work Opportunities:
Chicago’s startup and tech industry has been booming, with the city ranked the #5 tech hub in North America by CBRE, leading to a nice increase in remote work opportunities:
According to a Willis Towers Watson survey, 62% of employers have no expectations of adjustsing the salary for those working remotely.
This could mean a nice savings of time and transportation costs for workers in the Chicago area. Damage from potholes, gasoline, oil changes can be a big hit to the pocketbook. FlexJobs research shows that the average remote worker saves $6,000 annually in transit, childcare, and related in-office working costs. Not surprising.
Even better, a survey by Owl Labs found that 42% of companies plan to provide a home office stipend.
According to CBRE, vacancy rates in the Loop reached 21 in Q2 2024, the highest in ten years. This is likely to negatively impact businesses expecting revenue from commuters.
As a Chicago-based career coach, I suggest these strategies stay connected if you work remotely.
For a deeper dive: Missfitchicago Your Career Coach
Ideal networking Events for Chicago’s Remote Workforce:
Chicago Tech Week (annual event)
Built In Chicago’s virtual networking events
1871’s remote work meetups
LinkedIn Local Chicago (virtual and in-person events)
These events are great ways for remote workers to connect with peers and potential employers in the Chicago area.
Future of Remote Work in Chicago:
As remote work impacts Chicago’s professional work environment, both employers and employees must not only adapt but also and anticipate what the future holds to stay competitive.
This city is well-positioned to embrace and benefit from this shift. Are you?
Is anyone looking for a sharp resume writer or seasoned interview coach? I’m your gal. You want to chat more or need guidance, feel free to reach out at Dee@MissFitChicago.com or visit http://www.missfitchicago.com