How Remote Work Has Changed The Workforce
The Covid-19 pandemic revolutionised the way we work. Almost overnight, offices were emptied, and remote working became the norm. Over the last three years, remote work culture has changed the workforce. Work-from-home was a comfort for some but a bane for those who missed the office environment. Even after lockdowns lifted, many continued to work remotely, but more companies are encouraging employees to return to the office. In a climate where employers prefer to work in the office, and employees prefer to work remotely or on a hybrid basis, it is time to re-evaluate how we work.
Measuring Productivity
A major concern when working remotely or on-site is productivity. Employers have always preferred having employees in the office to ensure that targets and deadlines are met accordingly. With technological advances, digital tools are available for employers to measure productivity effectively. Employers that have invested in these digital tools can monitor progress remotely without having employees work in the office. Yet, some companies without new technologies may find it easier to measure outcomes in person and make the most of the office space. On the other hand, remote work allows employees to maximise their productivity because they do not need to commute.
Building Effective Communication
From Zoom to Microsoft Teams, employees became accustomed to seeing each other's faces via a plethora of communication platforms. Some managers find that it is more challenging to connect with employees virtually. Hence, managers feel that engaging with employees in person is necessary. Communicating with employees in the office facilitates non-verbal communication, whereas when it is done virtually, it inhibits the communication process, especially if there are technical issues. The lack of oversight resulted in a need to build trust and confidence between managers and employees to ensure their tasks are being fulfilled. Furthermore, working in the office benefits new hires as it allows direct interaction with their colleagues. On the other hand, working from home would make it difficult for employees to know precisely what is expected of them on a task, especially new talent who require training and guidance.
Attracting Exceptional Talent
It is important to consider how job seekers tend to prefer remote or hybrid mode because it can save them money and time, allow a work-life balance, and overall improve their well-being. Nevertheless, some job seekers prefer to work in the office because they lack the necessary work facilities at home or desire an office's conducive environment. Naturally, employers prefer work-in-office because it is easier to monitor employee performance and ensure that the investment put towards an office space does not go to waste. Depending on the industry, if competitors allow remote or hybrid mode, employees may leave and join competitors.
The workforce was transformed over the course of the pandemic as industries had to adapt to the lockdown in 2020. Managers may still be torn between allowing employees to work remotely or bringing them back to the office to achieve business goals. They must understand their employees' needs and explore technologies to stay competitive and productive. On the other hand, employees need to strive to increase their productivity and stay connected with their managers, whether working remotely or in-office. By re-evaluating remote work, both employers and employees can move forward by knowing how the workforce is no longer the same as it was pre-Covid and building a great working environment for everyone.
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