Photo by Mimi Thianh on Unsplash
The popularity of remote working has risen significantly in the past several years, and the perks don’t just extend to employees – when companies allow their staff to telecommute, they can benefit from reduced office expenses, a more efficient workforce, and a decrease in employee turnover among other things. However, many employers are hesitant to introduce remote working opportunities in their businesses, believing that staff who work from home will get nothing done. Here, we dispel some of the myths associated with remote work by looking at five ways telecommuting can significantly improve your business operations:
Decreased Overheads
From a financial standpoint, remote working can lead to a significant decrease in operating costs. Companies that opt for remote working arrangements enjoy enormous savings when it comes to paying for office space, housekeeping, utilities, mail service, and technology. A growing number Dutch the traditional office altogether, instead opting for far more economical virtual office solutions. Aetna, a company where 14,500 or 35,000 employees don’t have an in-office desk, cast off 2.7 million square feet of office space and saved a massive $78 million in company costs.
Happier Employees
It’s been proven time and time again that employees allowed to work remotely are much happier than their in-office counterparts. Working remotely does wonders for morale – employees no longer have to miss out on precious family time and get to enjoy the freedom of choosing their working environment. This leads to decreased employee turnover, higher productivity, less sick and vacation days taken and a more engaged workforce.
Increased Productivity
Many workplaces are still hesitant to introduce remote and flexible working options in the mistaken belief that employees who work from home aren’t as productive. However, 86% of employees surveyed in a study said they preferred to work alone to hit maximum productivity. Free from interruptions like loud colleagues, watercooler conversations, and impromptu meetings, remote workers can focus and get the job done quicker. In fact, two-thirds of managers say that employees who work remotely are more productive.
No Commute Time
Getting ready for work and commuting to and from the office can quickly eat up two or three hours of an employee’s day. This time is eliminated for people who work remotely, allowing them to get to their tasks from the moment they brew their first cup of coffee. As a result, most remote workers spend more time working since their hours aren’t confined to the 9 to 5 schedule of a typical office. Additionally, fewer people driving to work each day contributes to a greener future.
Flexibility
For many people, a traditional work schedule stands in the way of everything from family and caring commitments to being home to let the washing machine repair person in. Working remotely for even one or two days a week allows people to manage other aspects of their lives without stressing about getting to the office on time. For example, a remote worker can drop the kids off at school, run some errands and make up for the time they lost later in the day without needing to take a day of leave. There’s a reason 82 percent of telecommuters in a survey reported lower stress levels!
It’s simple: employees who enjoy a greater work-life balance and the flexibility to work from wherever they choose are more valuable to your company. The boost in morale that comes as a result of remote work arrangements leads to higher productivity and decreased employee attrition, all while saving you significant dollars in overheads. Now’s the perfect time to review your remote working policies and welcome in a new era of business. Another great idea is to get a virtual office, such as this Virtual Office London service, so you can use London as your business’s postal address.
