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One of the most popular benefits employees search for within a company right now is the ability to work remotely. Luckily, it’s becoming more accepted than ever before. As the popularity of this perk grows, the question we must ask is if it truly impacts on employees’ productivity and overall workflow.
You’ve probably heard someone you know say “I’m working remotely now” and may have wondered exactly what that means. Remote work gives employees the opportunity to do work outside of a traditional office space, essentially, wherever they’d like. This could be while traveling, one day a week from home, or potentially everyday. How and when an employee works from home depends on the organization’s policy. Understandably, there’s always a concern of whether or not this is is the right move for a business. Although there are arguments for both sides, research shows the pros strongly outweigh the cons. Consider remote work for your employees!
Productivity
Remote workers are more productive, and that should be reason enough to seriously consider this option. Yes, there are probably distractions at home, but no more than there are at the office. Between co workers around you chatting, people stopping by your desk, and being pulled into unplanned meetings, the office can be equally, if not more,distracting. According to a survey done by FlexJobs, only 7 percent of workers believe they’re most productive while in the office. This is attributed to fewer meetings, fewer colleague interruptions, higher level of comfort, and lower levels of stress thanks to no commute.
People are also willing to work longer hours if they can do their work remotely. Although they may have different schedules or miss time during traditional work hours, they are normally more willing to make this up outside of these hours and even weekends if necessary. In general, remote workers are also happier and more satisfied with their work. It’s important to note, this applies when employees have the option and choose to work remotely, rather than being required to work remotely by employers. No one likes being told what to do, and with the freedom to work where you want combined with the positive feeling of the trust your employer has in you to work remotely is a recipe for happiness and high quality work.
Finances
For both the employer and the employee, financially, remote work is beneficial. The amount of money a person can spend commuting to and from work can be astronomical, not to mention grabbing that morning coffee, or going out to lunch with coworkers. If you buy 3 out of 5 meals a week at work, staying home can save you around $19.50 a week, totaling around $900 dollars a year according to a study done by Quartz at Work. Employees will also save on other things such as gas, and being able to spend less on clothing thanks to the need for a smaller workplace wardrobe.
Not only is this financially smart for employees, but businesses will save too. A large office space isn’t required anymore so organizations are saving plenty on real-estate costs.. As stated before, remote workers are more willing to work more too, meaning employers get “get more for their money.” Global Workplace Analytics found, in a recent report, that more than a third of tech workers “would take a pay cut of 10% if they could work from home.” That could have a huge impact on a business’s bottom line.
Employee Potential
With no limit on finding a workplace based off location, the job potential is virtually endless for both employee and employer. Employees can take time finding the perfect job, rather than limiting themselves to a job in their local area. As for employers, they have the ability to find top talent thanks to remote work. Statewide, country wide, or even worldwide, the possibilities are endless. Don’t limit yourself based off of location; now is the time to take advantage of the internet and what it can do for your employees and your business!
Whether you’re for it or against it, remote work is worth a shot. These are just a few of the many benefits that come along with remote work, but these are the the ones that employees say to care about most.
