Thanks to technology, remote work has become possible, and it’s an excellent strategy to enhance businesses’ top objectives during challenging times. For tech companies like Vog, the infrastructure and policy needed for remote working are already in place. However, it can be quite challenging for other industries. Here are some of the tools that companies can rely on to overcome the problems that arose during this uncertain time:

Remote Work Benefits

Increased productivity, lowered stress and boosted morale are only a few of the benefits. Statistics have been sourced from the world’s leading research institutions (Harvard University, Global Workplace Analytics, Gallup, and Stanford University) that are studying the topic of remote working. This trend is not only a convenience, but it is also economically justified. So, what are the results?

Saving Costs

According to Global Workplace Analytics, companies that opt to offer remote job opportunities save an average of $11,000 per year per part-time worker, or have 21% higher profitability. The remote worker also save costs! According to a study from FlexJobs, remote workers save about $4,000 a year by working from home; this includes commuting costs as well as paring spending on coffee, lunches and a professional wardrobe.

Productivity & Flexibility

A recent survey conducted by FlexJobs shows that people of all ages, careers, and life stages consider flexible work options a priority. If businesses thought that remote work would decrease employee productivity, then obviously flexible working arrangements would not be accommodated. However, there is evidence showing that remote employees are more productive and work longer hours. With stronger autonomy via location independence, workers produce results with 40% fewer quality defects. Remote work eliminates one of the biggest obstacles to productivity, which are distractions and everyday commute. According to the Sure Payroll study, 86% of people said they preferred to work alone to “hit maximum productivity.” Moreover, two-thirds of managers say employees who work remotely increase their overall productivity. 

Appealing to Job Seekers

All the benefits listed above are appealing to job seekers, which will increase the number of applicants when a new job opportunity arises in a company that allows its employees to work remotely. According to a Stanford University study, offering remote work options reduced employee turnover, and 82% of professionals said they would be more loyal to their employers if they had flexible work options. Moreover, 54% of employees say they would change jobs for one that offered them more flexibility, which results in an average of 12% turnover reduction after a remote work agreement is offered. 

Work-life Balance

Remote work also lowers stress – in fact, an entire 82% of telecommuters reported lower stress levels. That is a good thing not only for employees but also for employers. 80% of workers also reported higher morale when working from home, while 69% reported lower absenteeism.

Working Remotely Now

Remote work is not the future anymore. The Coronarius disease (COVID-19) has been forcing industries to change the way they do business today. The number of people working from home increased dramatically because it’s not a question of whether or not companies will start working remotely, but if they will still be in business during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Technologies to Work Remotely

Advancements in technology and devices, including the Cloud, and several online communication tools, have massively contributed to the rising popularity of remote work.

Software

Facilitate communication, avoid misunderstandings, offer the tools required to improve tasks fulfilling and meetings. Here are the essential types of tools that will facilitate your team’s work:

• Web conferencing tools: With online communication tools, staying connected is easier than ever.
• Document sharing: collaborating on a document at the same time.
• Time-tracking software: used to monitor productivity.

These examples are just the tip of the iceberg; depending on the industry your work at, you can find a wide variety of tools or get a custom software developed that will meet your business’ particular needs.

Mobile Devices

For tech companies, the vast majority of staff members are probably already laptop users. However, some businesses still rely mostly on desktop equipment. As an employer, allow your staff to bring home whatever they need to keep fulfilling their work tasks. If any additional equipment is required, opt for laptops and mobile devices.

Make Remote Working Successful

It is always preferable to establish clear remote-work policies and processes advance. However, in times of crisis, this level of preparation may not be feasible. Here is how businesses can overcome some of the most common remote work challenges:

Facilitate Working Relationships

Good working relationships give your team several benefits: their work is more enjoyable when they have good relationships with those around them. Also, people are more likely to go along with changes that the company wants to implement, and companies are also more innovative and creative. According to the Gallup Organization, people who simply had a good friend in the workplace are more likely to be satisfied. Several characteristics build good, healthy working relationships: trust, mutual respect, wellness, diversity, and open communication. Facilitate those connections by scheduling times dedicated to this, listen to your colleagues actively, and celebrate wins together!

Processes

The changes that you will need to rearrange your processes are significant when switching from in-office work to remote work. There is always room for improvement, but some companies may require much more than a few adjustments. Have your documentation ready to make sure your staff is aware of the processes and those can be seamlessly followed. Furthermore, communication is vital, it doesn’t matter if your team works remotely or in office. The chances you are doing the right thing when making significant changes are much higher if you get the help of up to date tools, including top-notch custom-developed software.

Structure

As much as remote work can be fraught with challenges, there are also relatively quick and inexpensive things that managers can do to ease the transition. Check here some of the actions managers can take to establish structure. Millennials, the new generation of talents, are shaping the world of work for years to come as they bring radically different expectations about the nature of work. The oldest of millennials are now in their thirties, are moving into management, which means that they are now starting to be the architects of workplace culture. 

Work From Home Policy

Create a work from home policy that clearly defines the expectations and responsibilities for employees who work from home. Every company needs a defined work policy to ensure cyber-security and successful communication. Be clear on your expectations for performance and which expenses you intend to cover, so both you and your employees are satisfied.

Get the help of experienced developers that will build the right tool to meet all your expectations and truly boost efficiency, maximize profits and improve employee engagement. Contact Vog App Developers today.