Hybrid work models have erupted after the world called a cease fire on the pandemic fuelled by Covid-19. Despite productivity seeing a steep increase, companies are still much more comfortable with the idea that their employees go into the office, whether 50% of the month, or at least a week every month. With these hybrid models, it seems like we’re finally adjusting to an acceptable new normal whereby employees are empowered to live their own lives outside of the office and that employers are happy that their employees make the effort to come to the office… But a large portion of the population is still opting to work from home and rejecting all instances of having to participate in an office culture. Let’s explore what this means and why employees may have this kind of mindset.
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Remote work increases productivity
When you’re at the office, you’re constantly being distracted by your colleagues and the going-ons in the office, but even at home, you are also bombarded with things that have yet to be done. Laundry sitting in a pile, the dishes waiting to be washed, maybe even a pet dog seeking your attention. Interestingly enough, remote work productivity has proven to be consistent. Perhaps it is the ability to take frequent breaks that decreases the likelihood of burnout, or simply because working in a relaxed environment naturally boosts productivity, but experts have found that happy workers are more likely to be effective at what they do, with less mistakes.
Parental units or primary caregivers benefit the most from remote work
When you have a child, a pet, or a parent relying on you, it may be difficult for you to go to the office. Remote working jobs give individuals in these unique situations the opportunity of a flexible schedule. Being able to spend time with their family is also something that increases productivity and enhances job satisfaction. Being able to fulfill both their roles as an employee and a care-taker is rewarding to many, and employers are also becoming much more empathetic to those with dependents, which provides a positive outlook for the general community.
Mental health is taking a front seat in the new era
When the pandemic hit the world and everyone was forced to stay at home, it opened doors to discussions about mental health because people were struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, etcetera. While mental health has been trending in recent years, it wasn’t until it became a common topic did people start taking it seriously. In fact, remote work would highly benefit, not just people with mental disorders, but also those with disabilities. Remote working is accessible to those who are wheel-chair bound, autistic, or have any kind of other neurodivergence or handicap. Without having to meet your boss in real life and letting your work speak for yourself must be liberating for those who have had to deal with very real discrimination.
At the end of the day, it is up to employers whether they want to have a remote team, but the benefits are there and companies that welcome all, regardless of their backgrounds, will find that they have an even larger pool of diversity in the workplace.
In conclusion
Whether remote work is the best option moving forward largely depends on the specific circumstances of an organization and its employees. Remote work presents a host of advantages, including flexibility, potential cost savings, and access to a broader talent pool. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges, such as maintaining team cohesion, managing remote workers, and ensuring work-life balance. The decision to adopt remote work should be informed by a careful consideration of these factors, alongside an organization’s unique needs and goals. As the future of work continues to evolve, it’s likely that hybrid models combining the best of remote and on-site work will become increasingly prevalent, offering a balanced approach to meet the diverse needs of the workforce.