Remote work in Spain? HiQ says yes to flexible telecommuting
HiQ’s flexible remote work culture makes it easy to work from abroad. That’s why our HR and recruitment team decided to escape the autumn rains and head to the warmth of Spain.
Who among us hasn’t looked out the office window on a rainy October day and wished to be somewhere warmer? That’s exactly what HR and recruitment team members Oona Muilu, Tiina Laaksonen, and Liinu Pääkkölä thought as they decided to book a remote work trip to Spain. The trip lasted a total of 10 days, including two weekends, leaving time for both work and leisure.
“We spent the first weekend in Barcelona and the second in Madrid. For the workweek, we moved to the quieter town of Girona, where remote meetings and brainstorming for the upcoming year went smoothly from a spacious Airbnb. Spain was a great destination, not only because of its warm weather but also due to its efficient and fast train network, which made getting around easy,” says Oona, HiQ’s HR Specialist and recruiter.
“In a smaller location like Girona, all the sights and restaurants were just a few minutes’ walk away, making it easy to get into vacation mode after workdays. Unlike in big cities, we didn’t lose time commuting on metro lines,” she adds.
In a smaller location like Girona, all the sights and restaurants were just a few minutes’ walk away, making it easy to get into vacation mode after work.
Oona Muilu
HR Specialist, recruiter
According to HiQ’s remote work policy, working abroad is possible within the EU as long as it aligns with client needs. The hybrid work model has become a permanent feature at HiQ, and there are no plans to mandate office days.
“The majority of our employees appreciate this kind of working model, and HiQ wants to give everyone the opportunity to choose how and where they want to work. We trust our employees and their ability to manage their responsibilities, which creates flexibility in work and opens up new possibilities, like our remote work trip,” Oona explains.
According to Statistics Finland, in 2022, one in ten employed people still worked entirely from home, even after the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. When a job allows for this, it benefits everyone.
At HiQ, we want to foster a culture that empowers everyone to create a life that suits them, including their work.
“Work culture has already evolved significantly in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue. At HiQ, we want to foster a culture that empowers everyone to create a life that suits them, including their work. Of course, we still encourage community-building and organize various events for colleagues to connect, such as after-work gatherings, sports, and cultural activities. However, it’s also important to consider people’s diverse life situations.”
What was the takeaway from the remote work week in Spain? Sunshine, energy, strengthened friendships with colleagues, plenty of laughter, and a boost for the upcoming winter.
“We’re fortunate to have this opportunity. It’s something we’ll definitely want to take advantage of in the future. I think next year’s trip is already on all our minds.”
Related content:
Remote work in Spain? HiQ says yes to flexible telecommuting
Minna Lindholm’s first 100 days as Managing Director
From circus performer to software developer: HiQ’s Henkka enjoys strange challenges
Flexible culture drives well-being in work
“Work should be adapted to other life, not just the other way around”
