Teleworker Meaning: Definition and Examples

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teleworker

[ˈtɛlɪˌwɜːrkər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

work arrangement

A teleworker is an employee who works from a location other than the traditional office space, often from home, utilizing technology to communicate and complete tasks. This arrangement allows for flexibility in work hours and location, often leading to improved work-life balance. Teleworking has become increasingly popular, particularly due to advancements in communication technologies and shifts in workplace culture. Many organizations now embrace teleworking as a viable option, promoting productivity and employee satisfaction.

Synonyms

home worker, remote worker, virtual employee.

Examples of usage

  • Many companies hire teleworkers to reduce overhead costs.
  • As a teleworker, I enjoy the flexibility of my schedule.
  • Teleworkers often use video conferencing tools for meetings.
  • The rise of teleworkers has changed the dynamics of team collaboration.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The concept of working from home has been around for centuries, but it became more common in the late 20th century with advancements in technology.
  • In 1990, the first formalized teleworking guidelines were introduced in the United States, emphasizing the benefits of remote work.

Technology

  • Modern teleworkers rely on tools like video conferencing, cloud storage, and collaboration apps to stay connected and productive.
  • High-speed internet and mobile technology have been crucial for making remote work feasible for many jobs.

Psychology

  • Teleworking can lead to increased job satisfaction for many, as it offers flexibility and reduced commuting time.
  • However, it can also result in feelings of isolation, highlighting the importance of virtual social interactions.

Pop Culture

  • The rise of teleworking has been featured in various films and TV shows, showcasing the challenges and benefits of remote job roles.
  • Memes about working in pajamas have become popular, reflecting the humorous side of teleworking culture.

Origin of 'teleworker'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'teleworker' combines 'tele,' from the Greek word for 'distant,' and 'worker,' showing the idea of working from afar.
  • The word began gaining popularity in the 1980s with the rise of computers and telecommunication technologies.

The term 'teleworker' emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, coinciding with the rise of personal computers and advances in telecommunications. The prefix 'tele-' comes from the Greek word 'tēle', meaning 'distant' or 'far off', and 'worker' refers to a person engaged in work. Initially, teleworking was seen as a way to reduce traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas by allowing employees to work from home. The concept gained traction in the 1990s as the internet became more widely accessible, allowing for seamless communication between remote employees and their employers. Over the years, teleworking has evolved, becoming a standard practice in many industries, especially during the global shift towards remote work necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,285, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.