Remote Work in Serbia’s IT Sector: Can Companies Keep Up?

Remote work, once a rare perk in Serbia, has become the norm in the IT industry. The pandemic proved that teams can stay productive and efficient even when working from home, and employees have grown accustomed to the flexibility, time savings, and improved work-life balance. But as the world gradually returns to “normal,” some companies are pushing for employees to come back to the office. The question is: can this trend survive in Serbia’s IT sector?

The numbers are clear: Employees don’t want to give up remote work

According to a recent “Osiguranik” report on Serbia’s IT sector, more than two-thirds of employees currently working remotely say they would consider leaving their company if the remote option were taken away.

This is no small issue. In an industry already struggling with a talent shortage, ignoring employee preferences could be a costly mistake. Remote work is no longer a bonus; for many, it has become an essential requirement.

Why do employees value remote work so much?

When we talk to IT professionals, the same reasons come up again and again:

• Flexibility: the ability to organize their own day, work from different places, and balance professional and personal obligations

• Time savings: avoiding traffic, long commutes, and logistical headaches

• Productivity: many feel they focus better at home, without office distractions and unnecessary meetings

Interestingly, most employees don’t want to eliminate the office entirely—they want the freedom to choose. Hybrid models, where teams define how often they meet in person, are increasingly seen as the best compromise.

Can remote work succeed long-term?

Of course, working remotely has its challenges: maintaining team culture, communication, onboarding new hires, and ensuring a sense of belonging. But modern IT companies are increasingly investing in tools and practices to overcome these issues—from virtual coworking spaces and digital rituals to occasional in-person meetups.

If you want to learn more about how managers can strengthen their teams in this environment, check out our article: How to Build a Strong Team – Tips for Managers.

Ultimately, the biggest test will be: are managers willing to build trust? Shifting from control to autonomy isn’t easy, but companies that succeed are the ones most likely to retain and motivate top talent.

Conclusion: Flexibility is no longer a perk—it’s the standard

Remote work in Serbia’s IT sector is no longer just a pandemic trend—it’s an expectation. Companies considering a full return-to-office policy should carefully review the data: employees are willing to walk away if the flexibility they’ve come to value is taken away.

For IT firms, the future lies in recognizing that flexibility isn’t a luxury—it’s a business necessity. Those who understand this will be best positioned to navigate the next phase of the labor market.