Embracing Remote Work: Benefits and Strategies

Remote work is rapidly establishing itself as the new standard. The pandemic’s impact on physical workplaces forced many organisations into remote work, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Boardroom meetings have shifted to online platforms, with Microsoft Teams emerging as a top choice for remote collaboration. According to a study cited in USA Today, around 22 million Americans now work remotely—about 14% of employed adults.

While some employees miss the camaraderie of a physical office, remote communication and collaboration platforms have introduced innovative solutions to recreate the social aspects of an in-person workplace. With virtual video conferencing, employees can see and hear each other, facilitating seamless communication from the comfort of their homes. The popularity of tools like Microsoft Teams highlights how remote workers value ways to simulate the interactive experience of an office environment.

Seeing colleagues’ faces and hearing their voices fosters a stronger connection than text alone can offer, which is why group video tools and AV setups are so popular among remote teams.

However, one challenge of remote work is building a strong workplace culture. As companies adapt to remote work, savvy leaders are using digital tools to foster the social bonds that strengthen team culture. Leaders recognize that building a cohesive team is crucial for employee productivity and engagement.

How Remote Work Impacts Team Culture

Flexibility
Remote work enables team members to work from virtually anywhere, whether it’s from home or another location. This flexibility reduces commuting time, supports a better work-life balance, and can lead to reduced fuel costs. Remote work has also seen many employees moving from urban centers to rural areas, easing demand for urban real estate.

Increased Productivity and Engagement
Remote work can significantly boost productivity and engagement. Research shows that 81% of hybrid workers, 78% of fully remote employees, and 72% of on-site employees report high levels of engagement. However, this productivity boost relies heavily on having the right technology in place.

Access to a Broader Talent Pool
Remote work dissolves geographic barriers, widening the pool of potential talent on a global scale. Companies can hire without needing to factor in relocation costs, fostering diversity in perspectives, backgrounds, and skills. A Harvard Business Review study found that applicants who lived more than 5 miles from a workplace were one-third less likely to receive a callback. Embracing remote work helps reduce location bias, increases organisational diversity, and opens access to a broader talent base.

Improved Employee Retention
Offering remote work options not only attracts new talent but also strengthens employee loyalty. Surveys indicate that 74% of employees feel more loyal to companies that provide remote work options, while Gallup reports that 54% of workers would switch employers for more flexible arrangements. Remote work thus becomes a cost-effective way to retain talent and boost morale.

Greater Emphasis on Cybersecurity and Technology
As employees, devices, and data shift away from traditional office environments, cybersecurity becomes more crucial. Businesses must prioritise cybersecurity protocols to guard against potential risks and ensure secure, efficient technology usage.

Reduced Overhead Costs
Remote and hybrid work models can substantially cut real estate expenses by requiring less office space. Additionally, companies save on overhead costs for supplies, utilities, and more. Pre-pandemic, employers saved approximately $11,000 per half-time remote worker, with potential savings rising to $22,000 for full-time remote employees.

Embracing the Future of Work

Remote work is shaping the future of the workforce. Is your business ready to make the shift? Crossover offers solutions to help you recruit top remote talent and enhance both efficiency and profitability.

With the above advantages of remote work, New Era Technology presents a perfect model for remote work options. Contact us for more information, and read our service offering on Communication and Collaboration.