Remote work is the new normal—what began as a necessity has become a staple in today’s shifting workplace. Employers used to be wary of having their employees work remotely because they worried their productivity would suffer. However, recent polls conducted after the pandemic have proven the opposite.
Once the pandemic hit, remote working became mandated for public health reasons. Multiple businesses have offered more flexible schedules, not requiring 40 hours of office work each week. Poll data from Gallup showed that 67% of US white-collar employees worked from home at least partially by September 2021, with 41% doing so exclusively.
Today, it’s a common practice in the workforce and a growing trend. With people showing a preference for working from home and being able to work more efficiently, it is evident that remote work in the new normal will continue to increase until 2023. In fact, 64% of workers would consider quitting if asked to return to the office full-time.
10 Reasons Why Remote Work In the New Normal is Rising
Let’s look into different reasons remote work in this new normal economy will keep getting more potent as an alternative and demand for more and more employees today:
1. Increased Productivity
With remote work, there’s no need to commute or wait in long lines at the office. Employees can focus on their tasks undistracted by office chatter or other interruptions. As a result, they get more accomplished in less time.
Remote work in the new normal is increasingly recognized as a productivity booster for companies in the United States. Recent statistics highlight several key factors contributing to this productivity surge.
Firstly, eliminating daily commutes and reducing stress levels have improved work-life balance, with 95% of respondents in a 2020 survey by FlexJobs reporting better balance and increased productivity. Secondly, the flexibility of remote work allows employees to tailor their work hours and create personalized, distraction-free workspaces.
In addition, access to digital tools and technology enhances collaboration and efficiency while reduced commuting costs and improved overall health and wellness further contribute to a productive remote work environment. Lastly, the ability to tap into a global talent pool fosters a skilled and diverse workforce.
However, the extent of productivity gains can vary based on individual circumstances and employer support, emphasizing the importance of well-defined remote work policies and technology infrastructure.
Overall, remote work’s positive impact on employee productivity is underpinned by reduced commute-related stress and time, flexible work hours, personalized work environments, access to digital tools, and improved work-life balance and well-being.
2. Better Work-Life Balance
Remote work in the new normal revolutionizes the work-life balance for U.S. employees and others worldwide. Recent statistics affirm this shift, highlighting several key drivers.
Firstly, eliminating daily commutes has allowed employees to redirect their time and energy towards personal activities and relaxation. According to a 2020 FlexJobs survey, 95% of respondents credited remote work with significantly enhancing their work-life balance.
Secondly, flexibility in work hours, a hallmark of remote work, empowers individuals to tailor their schedules to their most productive times, as revealed by a 2020 Buffer survey, where 32% of remote workers regarded flexible hours as a top benefit. Additionally, personalized home workspaces, reported to enhance comfort and concentration by 75% of remote employees in a 2021 Enterprise Technology Research (ETR) survey, have contributed to reduced workplace stress.
Furthermore, remote work has fostered a greater focus on health and wellness. Employees now have more time for exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep, which, according to a 2021 Gallup survey, has led to an improved sense of well-being. In conclusion, recent data underscores how remote work’s elimination of commutes, flexible scheduling, personalized workspaces, and emphasis on well-being transform work-life balance for U.S. employees, creating a healthier and more balanced professional and personal life.
READ MORE: Making Your Business Ready for the New Normal
3. Lower Overhead Costs
Remote work in the new normal can significantly reduce overhead costs for companies in the US by eliminating the need for large office spaces and reducing utility costs, office supplies and equipment costs, commuting costs, and employee benefits costs.
For example, a study by Global Workplace Analytics found that a typical U.S. employer can save an average of $11,000 per half-time telecommuter per year (therefore, $22,000 on a fully remote employee). FlexJobs found that US employers were saving $30 billion every day throughout the coronavirus pandemic while their employees worked remotely. Owl Labs found that 82% of remote workers save money on commuting costs, and Upwork found 77% save on office supplies and equipment costs.
While some of these cost savings may be offset by the need to invest in technology and infrastructure to support remote work, the overall savings are likely to be significant, especially for companies with many remote employees.
Overall, remote work can be a cost-effective way for companies in the US to operate in the new normal.
4. Access To A Wider Talent Pool
Employers have access to a larger pool of talent when recruiting workers remotely as they don’t receive applications solely based on location but rather ones based on skillset and experience.
4. Increased Flexibility
Remote work in the new normal allows more flexibility regarding work hours and location. This means that employees can work during times of the day when they are most productive and choose to work from anywhere in the world.
6. Reduced Carbon Footprint
Fewer people commuting to work can significantly reduce a business’s carbon footprint. This is great for companies that want to reduce their environmental impact.
7. Better Health and Wellness
Employees who work from home can take better care of themselves. They have more time for exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. This can lead to an overall better sense of well-being.
8. Increased Diversity and Inclusion
Remote work provides opportunities for individuals who may not have access to traditional office jobs. This means that businesses can increase diversity and inclusion by hiring people from different backgrounds who may not have been able to work in an office environment.
9. Higher Retention Rates
Employees who work remotely tend to have higher job satisfaction rates, leading to higher business retention rates. This can save costs on recruitment and training for new hires.
10. Adaptability
Remote work allows businesses to adapt to unexpected circumstances like pandemics, natural disasters, or economic downturns. Companies can continue to operate without disruption, even when unexpected events occur.
Tips for Business Owners Transitioning to a Remote Team in the New Normal
As remote work becomes more prevalent, business owners are facing the task of transitioning their teams to a remote setting. Here are 10 tips for business owners who are making the transition:
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Invest in Technology
Ensure your team has the technology necessary to work remotely, including laptops, software, and internet access.
In addition, provide your remote team with the resources and equipment they need to perform their work effectively. This includes providing laptops, software, and any other tools they may need. You also need to study the role of big data for your small business, as it helps you go global and local more effectively, protect your client and business data, and expand operations as you continue to grow as a business.
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Set Clear Expectations and Communication Protocols
Ensure your team knows their roles and responsibilities and the expectations for communication and deadlines.
Moreover, set up regular check-ins and establish guidelines for communication. This can include email, phone, or video conferencing.
You can utilize collaboration and communication tools like Slack, Zoom, and Asana to keep your remote team connected and on track.
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Create a Remote Work Policy
Establish a policy that outlines what is expected of your remote team members, including work hours, communication, and availability.
Set work hours and boundaries so your team knows when they are expected to be available and when to disconnect and take a break.
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Encourage Collaboration and Provide Training
Encourage your team to work together and collaborate on projects using online tools and platforms.
Also, offer training and support to help your team members adjust to working remotely. In addition, invest in team-building activities. Find ways for your remote team to build relationships with one another, such as online game nights or virtual happy hours.
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Foster a Positive Company Culture and Preserve Mental Health
Foster a positive company culture by encouraging teamwork, recognizing hard work, and celebrating successes. Let your team know their hard work is appreciated and valued. Send emails, cards, or gifts to show your gratitude.
More importantly, recognize that remote work can be isolating, and provide resources for your team members to prioritize their mental health. You may also encourage breaks, socialization, and self-care.
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Trust, Reward, and Incentivize
Trust that your team members will get their work done and avoid micromanaging. Micromanaging can lead to decreased productivity and morale.
Give them the freedom to do their tasks the best they know how while constantly communicating when there are challenges. This will allow them to feel empowered and valued.
Furthermore, consider rewarding your team members for their hard work and incentivizing them to go above and beyond. This will help to keep them motivated and engaged in their work.
So, celebrate your remote team members’ small wins and successes throughout the year, such as completing a project ahead of schedule or receiving positive client feedback.
Conclusion
As more and more businesses recognize the benefits of remote work in the new normal, it is clear that it will become the new normal. From increased productivity to reduced overhead costs, the advantages of working remotely are hard to ignore.
As remote work continues to become more prevalent, business owners need to adapt and transition their teams to a remote setting. By following these tips and embracing the benefits of remote work in the new normal, businesses can thrive in the new normal and enjoy increased productivity, lower overhead costs, and a happier and healthier workforce.
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