Introduction
There have been many headlines in the last several years on remote work, both for it and against it. The truth is, there isn’t one right answer applicable across the board. Having a remote staff has both benefits and limitations. That said, it would be a mistake to ignore the benefits of remote work out of fear or opinions because they can far surpass the limitations. Remote work can result in thriving and satisfied employees that have a positive impact on your company’s bottom line. Here are some top benefits to consider if you’re on the fence about allowing remote work.
4. Reduced Expenditures for you and your Employees
Both you and your employees will spend less money by allowing remote work. You’ll need less office space, so you can save on rent, electricity, and amenities you provide in the office.
Your employees will enjoy spending less money on business attire, gasoline, and car upkeep.
Tip: Keep some space for office gatherings and for those who want to be in office or hybrid. You can use scheduling software, so no one is fighting over desk space. If you do choose to eliminate office space, be prepared to spend some money on employee events. It will definitely be worth the cost, and certainly less than what you spend on office space.
3. Expanded Talent pool
It’s hard to find good talent. It’s really hard to find people who check every box, and it will only get harder as rapid technology changes the skills necessary in the workplace. Being able to expand your talent pool outside the city, state, or even country can make a lot of difference in your ability to innovate and succeed as a company.
2. Operational Continuity
When environmental or other disruptions happen, you can get back to business faster – especially if your employees are all over the nation (or globe). Every year there are bad weather days when schools and businesses close down. Remote employees are still set up to work and don’t have the danger of trying to get somewhere in bad weather. Further, if their kids have to take bad weather days, they are less likely to have to call out sick to take care of them.
As this is being written, schools are temporarily closing as illnesses run rampant. Once upon a time, this may have been frustrating, but these days, often people are grateful to reduce the spread of illness. Less exposure to illness can also mean paying out fewer sick days!
1. Work-life balance
No, this doesn’t mean your employees are doing laundry between meetings. This does mean your employees can spend the time they would’ve used to commute on something else more meaningful to them, such as being with family and friends. This alone can result in employees who stick around longer.
Honorable Mentions
- Flexible work schedules (depending on your office policies). When employees can choose their working hours, they can work when they are at their best.
- Fewer distractions. Each person can control their environment, creating a space optimal for workplace productivity.
- Corporate social responsibility. Fewer commutes and less maintenance of office spaces reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Conclusion
I encourage you to redefine how the day to day looks for your employees, and embrace the benefits of remote work. As you measure how it transforms your business, you may discover improved employee performance, as well as positive impacts on employee wellbeing, in addition to cost-savings for you and your employees. If you need help implementing remote work in a way that helps your teams thrive, check out this article.