Thanks to technology, more people than ever are working remotely. Remote work allows employees to work outside of a traditional office environment.
What does it mean to work remotely? Mostly, it means that employees can get their work done in a way that is more suited to their style of working, and in a way that makes sense for their lifestyle.
Working remotely isn’t for everyone. Here are 5 things you should know:
1. Remote Work can be Done from Different Spaces
Some freelance work can be done completely from home, while some employers allow for work from home with occasional times when employees must come to an office location for in-person meetings.
Some people get work done in coworking spaces, where there are professional amenities and technological connectivity, so it is like being in an office space, but they can come and go as they please, because these spaces are open at hours that suit them.
They can work solo, or they can meet and network with others from other industries, so there are even more networking opportunities than in a traditional corporate environment. There are even coworking collectives that have locations all over the world, for the ultimate location flexibility.
2. Remote Work Allows you to Work when it Suits You
Being a morning person or night owl doesn’t matter. Working from home or in a coworking space means you can work when you are at your best and most creative. Which isn’t always 9 to 5.
3. There is Flexibility and Freedom
When you have a doctor appointment, you don’t have to ask for time off. If you need to pick up your kids from school, you don’t have to ask to leave work early.
For those who like stability and a routine schedule, you can choose to enforce rules on yourself.
4. Remote Work Results in Higher Productivity
Increased productivity comes from having the flexibility to work where, when and how you want. You don’t have to choose a job you might not be that fond of just because it is closer to where you live, for example.
Being happier with their work situation means employees tend to put in extra effort to get the work done. Managers have actually reported that there is an increase of overall productivity from their remote employees.
5. Both Employees and Employers are Happier
Employees end up being less stressed, with higher morale than in-office workers. One reason is having no commute. Having flexibility means less absenteeism and being more engaged in their work.
Satisfied employees are just better employees.
Employers love happier employees. They are more engaged, more efficient and offer up higher quality work.
In addition, employers enjoy cost savings from significantly decreased overhead from things like rent and office furniture.
Contented employees also mean employees that stay with their employers, so there is less turnover and having to go through the cost and trouble of recruiting new employees.
Remote work is work that benefits both the employee and the employer!