Hybrid and remote work are now the norm for tech workers. Employer tech firms are faced with the task of fostering flexibility and innovation while remaining compliant with employment, data protection, and international legal obligations. As legal frameworks rapidly evolve to keep pace with new work models, here’s how you can stay ahead of the curve.
Update employment contracts for a remote world
Clear employment contracts are essential for compliance and to prevent future disputes. Employers need to revise existing agreements to reflect flexible work setups. In particular, set out expectations around working hours, and how employees are expected to communicate with the company and other team members. You also need to set out how performance will be assessed – especially given the complexities around managing the productivity of remote teams.
Data protection tailored for a dispersed workforce
As your remote team grows, they’ll be accessing the same data as they did in the office, but from many different locations. This makes compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) a more complicated matter. How secure are your employees’ home systems and networks? What are the additional security risks involved with transporting sensitive data on laptops and devices? Consider these and all other relevant questions and put in place strong cybersecurity protocols. Implement strong user access controls, encryption, and carry out regular audits to prevent data breaches.
Flexible working, changing employment laws
Offering flexible working to employees is not as simple as changing their working hours or just letting them work from home. The UK employment law landscape is evolving rapidly, and the onus is on employers to keep on top of the changes. The Employment Rights Bill, for example, was introduced in 2024 and proposes to strengthen flexible working rights, and provide clearer definitions of worker status, in addition to imposing obligations of fair treatment. Getting expert help from experienced law offices is invaluable for companies to correctly and more efficiently implement these complex and fast-changing legislative updates.
Mitigate risks across jurisdictions
Employing staff across borders opens up numerous legal complexities for tech firms. For example, tax obligations and labour laws such as those around minimum wage can vary widely in each location. You might also face immigration challenges such as ensuring local work authorisations and getting appropriate work visas if remote workers have to visit the UK office. Tech firms should evaluate the risk, seek legal advice in each relevant jurisdiction, and set clear policies for international remote workers.
Future-proof your tech business by staying compliant
As the future of work evolves, legal awareness is non-negotiable. For tech firms, getting ahead of compliance now means fewer problems and more growth later.