Knowledge workers and the effects of remote work on occupational balance

Abstract: Introduction: Technology has enabled remote work that is not location bound. Remote work is often performed by knowledge workers who focus on problemsolving and distributing information. New ways of working create a need for new information about the relationship between work and occupational balance. Aim:The aim of this study was to examine remote work´s impact on knowledge worker´s occupational balance from the perspectives of work-life balance and work-life conflict. Method: Method used was scoping review. Data were gathered with the help of electronic data bases. Results: Nine research papers and two Bachelor´s theses were analyzed for the study. Through content analysis the following categories were formed: How gender differences impact occupational balance, Environment in relation to balance, Type of work in relation to occupational balance, How family affects occupational balance and Means to maintain occupational balance. Conclusions: The findings indicate that remote work influences knowledge worker´s occupational balance. Family, type of work, environment, and gender affect the way balance is perceived. Worker and employer collaboration is important in maintaining occupational balance. Significance: As occupational balance may affect work efficiency and wellbeing positively; more research on both remote work and knowledge work should be performed