The COVID-19 pandemic created a remote work tipping point, forcing hundreds of millions worldwide to work from their homes.
More companies have gradually shifted to telecommuting. Video conferencing software also made it possible for companies to work all hours of the day and keep in touch with their co-workers.
The concept of remote work remains a mystery to many. Some people are still wondering why someone should choose to work outside of an office. However, there are tons of benefits to remote work for both employees and their employers.
What is Remote Work?
Remote work or telecommuting is a working style that does not follow the traditional office setting. Thanks to the recent technologies, working and even managing a team can be done without being in the same room, city, or country. All you need is a laptop and a good internet.
Working from home began before the Industrial Revolution when skill workers set up shop at their own residence and sold their services or wares.
However, the need for automation and the creation of factories between 1760 and 1840 required employees to work in-house to complete their tasks. The Industrial Revolution era also spurred the act of commuting to “the office.”Modern-day remote work came with the birth of the internet in 1983 and expanded after WiFi was invented in 1991.
Remote Work Benefits
In 2015, ConnectSolutions conducted a survey to find the benefits gained by remote workers and their employers. Results showed that lowered stress and work burnout make employees feel healthier and encouraged them to stay longer with the company. Respondents also said that telecommuting allowed them to save as much as $5,000 a year.
The report found that employers also benefit from remote work as it allows their workers to finish their tasks in 30% less time than they usually would when working on-site. The flexible schedule and the higher morale that comes with telecommuting also increased a worker’s production by up to 77%.
The Future of Remote Work
Now that the novel coronavirus is forcing people to hunker down in their homes, work has become virtual and remote. Because remote workers get to complete their duties at a faster rate, and their schedule allows for a higher engagement, telecommuting shows no signs of fading away even after the pandemic ends.
Thanks to advancements in technology, employers and employees could improve work-life balance, stay connected, and accomplish more together as a team.
