Why employers should consider offering remote working

In an effort to combat the spread of Covid-19 coronavirus across Ireland, we have seen many organisations implement remote working practices in order to encourage social distancing where possible.

Many organisations are preparing to operate remotely for the coming weeks, which can initially seem daunting for employers.

Although it may not seem it initially, teleworking has many advantages for organisations as well. Staffing specialist Walters People highlights some of the advantage’s employers can benefit from. Now more than ever, it is important to focus on these benefit’s and use this change in work practices in our favour.

1. Reduced stress levels

With so many employees spending so much of their time together, it is difficult to avoid the constant talk and updates of what is going on around us. This makes it difficult for employees to switch off and therefore increases levels of anxiety and worry. Close contact is hard to avoid in a small office, and many employees face long commutes on public transport to and from work every day. This puts them at risk and adds to their everyday stress, negatively impacting their levels of productivity.

By allowing employess to work from home, organisations not only reduce the chance of the virus being spread through community transmission, but also reduces the stress, anxiety and worry employees may face.

2. Increased performance

By offering the option to work from home, organisations generally ensure a good work-life balance for their staff. Provided they respect certain basic rules, they can organise their working day in the way that suits them best. In an office environment, all employees must adapt to the same conditions. When working from home, they have more control: they can choose at what time of the day they prefer to work (early in the morning or late in the evening). This allows them to perform better than during the working hours they would normally spend at the office.

3. Technology advancements

Thanks to advancing technological capabilities in today’s modern world, working at home is no longer an obstacle to performing daily tasks. With a variety of innovative platforms, regular meetings can take place as per usual via online video conferencing, and team projects and collaboration can all be shared and accessed online.

4. Individual decision

It is important to note that such homeworking measurements do not necessarily imply an obligation for all staff to work from home every day of the week. For example, some organisations have left the decision up to the individual employee, to make their own choice on whether to return to the office or not. This gives the employees the opportunity to choose whatever option suits them best in their personal life. Instilling this trust and respect between both employer and employees will be seen as hugely beneficial down the line.

5. Good corporate image

It is as important now more than ever for employees to know that their employer prioritises their health and safety. Offering work from home practices is a good way for employers to show that they care about the well-being of their employees. In the short term this will put them at ease, but also in the long term it has a positive effect on their sense of appreciation and thus on the overall positive image of the organisation.

Find out more?

Take a look at our top tips and advice or contact one of our expert consultants today for more specialist advice.

If you would like to know more on this topic and discuss potential gender diversity strategies, please do not hesitate to get in touch: dublin@walterspeople.com