Remote work is without doubt the future of work. However, up to now, not everyone has the privilege to enjoy the benefits of remote work yet. The reason why is that firms often, unjustifiably, associate remote work with lazy employees working from bed. As a matter of fact, remote workers are everything but lazy. Studies have shown that they are far more motivated and productive than their peers working in offices.
But that’s not all. There are far more benefits which are related to remote work. If you are asking yourself whether to allow your employees to work remotely, here are three which are particularly important to you.
Higher revenues through an increase in productivity
The first benefit is revenue. An increase in revenue which results from more productivity is the main reason why remote work is extremely beneficial for firms. But why is it, that productivity increases if employees work at home? Just think about it, how much of your dedicated work time do you actually spend working at your office? Most certainly not that much, right? The truth is that an office space provides a wide source of distraction. Noise, quick chats with co-workers, extended coffee breaks and numerous meetings are just a few examples. By reducing these sources, employees can spend more time working. Also, without distraction, the quality of their time working increases. Having less distraction means more focus and thus, more outcome.
Costs savings through less office space
The second benefit are costs. If you allow your employees to work from home you require much less office spaces. Therefore, you have less expenses. Further, reimbursements for commuting become redundant and costs for equipment decrease as well.
Less turnover through high employee satisfaction
A third reason is employee turnover. Remote work, unsurprisingly, yields a lot of flexibility for employees. Because of less or no time commuting, remote workers have more free time and can focus more on the things that matter to them. Moreover, traffic and public transportation can be avoided. Thus, they tend to be less stressed and can further develop a renewed passion for their work. The resulting increase in satisfaction makes them less likely to quit their job.
In general, remote work does not only yield advantages for the employer. It provides numerous benefits for the employee as well, out of which better health, higher satisfaction and an increase in well-being are the most important ones. This aspect is specifically highlighted by this third reason.
Define a contractual agreement
To benefit from the advantages mentioned before, it is particularly important to define a written agreement with your employee. Here is what you should discuss about.
Communication
Set regular meetings and phone calls to oversee the work progress and to boost team work. Besides, define how communication will take place. Moreover, the medium of communication and the reachability are to be outlined as well.
Work schedule and duration of remote work
Agree on a work schedule. Define the days and times an employee is working remotely. If needed, agree on tools to track working hours and work progress. Additionally, define the time horizon for remote work and how to extend or terminate it.
Equipment
A proper equipment is crucial for remote work. It allows the employee to work unrestrictedly. Thus, define what equipment is needed and who is responsible for providing it.
Overall, if set-up and thought through properly, remote work can be beneficial for employers and employees simultaneously. To mitigate the risks, a written agreement and the usage of work management tools are highly recommended. With it, success is almost certain.
