What distinguishes workers who can work from home from those who cannot?

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Remote Work Capability is Tied to Skill Level and Economic Standing

Workers who possess the ability to work from home are typically well-off and highly skilled, allowing them to negotiate accommodations with their employers. In contrast, individuals unable to work remotely often hold lower-skilled positions in sectors such as leisure, hospitality, and food services. These essential in-person roles frequently involve greater personal risk without commensurate compensation, contributing to a widening economic disparity.
Pre-existing Economic Fault Lines

Even before the pandemic, the US labour market exhibited signs of strain, with the Private Sector Job Quality Index (JQI) showing a downward trend for years. This indicated a growing number of non-supervisory jobs that did not offer competitive pay. A study from the Brookings Institution revealed that 44 per cent of US workers qualified as "low wage," earning a median annual income of approximately US$18,000 (RM78,255).
Increased Risk for Frontline Workers

The pandemic exacerbated existing inequalities, particularly impacting lower-skilled workers who cannot perform their duties remotely. These individuals face increased health risks by continuing to work in person, often in industries like hospitality and food services, without receiving additional pay for this heightened exposure. This situation has been described by economists as a "great increaser of inequality."
Employer Responses to Labour Shortages

In response to increased risks and to retain employees, some employers have implemented temporary pay increases. For instance, some businesses in the Boston area have offered pay hikes of up to 30 per cent. However, the long-term economic security of these workers remains uncertain, especially if government stimulus measures are not extended, potentially forcing them to accept any available employment in a competitive job market.

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What distinguishes workers who can work from home from those who cannot?

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