We’re now on our second month into a new year; however, many things don’t feel “new,” especially when it comes to our work environment. Are you still working virtually? What have you learned over the last 10 months? Are we better equipped to go back into an office setting, or has our “new normal” become how we wish to work?
According to FlexJobs, A Gartner survey of company leaders found that 80% plan to allow employees to work remotely at least part of the time after the pandemic, and 47% will allow employees to work from home full-time. In a PwC survey of 669 CEOs, 78% agree that remote collaboration is here to stay for the long-term.
So, is this a good thing or a less than desirable side effect of the pandemic?
It turns out that in general, managers are discovering that their employees are just as productive—if not more—working remotely. However, this begs the question of how workplace relationships are adapting. Sure, there’s wonderful technology to help us, but have we lost the human connection? If so, what does that mean for our careers and the organizations we work for?
Having to adapt so quickly to such a major change was a challenge for many. When the dust settled, some surprising information came to light:
Remote workers are 35 to 40 percent more productive than those in-office.
Remote workers express greater job satisfaction (57 to 50 percent) versus in-office employees.
What are some reasons for these positive changes?
- Fewer interruptions
- More focused time
- Quieter work environment
- More comfortable workspace
- Not being involved in office politics
All of that makes sense, right? But how do we really feel about not being able to pop into our colleagues’ offices when we need to? Do we miss the interaction, having lunch together, participating in in-person meetings? Does it really make a difference?
When handled efficiently, most feel it does not make a difference. Having regularly scheduled team meetings or check-ins with managers goes a long way in keeping momentum going, projects being completed on time, and general accountability in place.
These positives are what long-term remote workers and entrepreneurs have known for a long time. A little flexibility lends itself to a more dedicated worker, and the routine of going to the office doesn’t necessarily make for a more productive environment. I can’t think of a single person who misses office politics, sitting in traffic, or constant interruptions.
Is it the wave of the future? Perhaps. Can something better for humankind be done with these office buildings? Possibly. Can we keep perfecting the virtual environment and the remote interactions with our colleagues? Time will tell.
We’re interested to know about your experience working virtually. Would you be happy to continue doing so, or you are waiting patiently for the day when you can return to your workplace? If you would like to explore this or any other concept about your working environment through the coaching process, please visit my website at: www.mbrownassociates.com