Next Steps – Returning to The Office or Staying Remote

Throughout the last two months, a majority of businesses have conducted a majority of their daily operations from a remote location. Working from home became a norm as COVID-19 impacted workforces and individuals around the world.

As the time comes for employers to open offices and resume in-office workforces, many are choosing to extend working from home measures. Not only are they looking at employee safety, but they are also keeping in mind the convenience allowed with a work-from-home environment.

In a 2019 study by Airtasker, it was proven that employees were more productive when working from home. This study states that “Researchers polled 1,004 full-time employees throughout the U.S. about their productivity, their commutes and other facets of their lives. Among that group were 505 people who worked remotely. The study found that working from home not only benefits employees by eliminating their daily commutes, it also increases productivity and leads to healthier lifestyles. It’s a win-win situation that workers relish for its flexibility – but often at the cost of their work-life balance.” (Business News Daily)

This has been further proven throughout the time of COVID-19. Companies around the world have seen increased productivity while employees have been working from home.

Although working from home is favored by many individuals, there are some employees who prefer working in an office setting.

Employers are opening offices gradually and at minimized capacity while following regulations set by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines.  For some companies, positions are better filled by someone on-premise or in- office. Many of those were deemed essential during the COVID-19 crisis in America. Others found ways to work remotely but feel the need to return to work for convenience.

If you are looking to return to work, Consumer Reports developed an article with a list of 5 Questions to Ask Your Employer Before Heading Into The Office. These are centered around precautions, protective equipment, social distancing and the ability to continue working remotely.

With the correct technology and applications in place, businesses are finding that the office is not always an ingredient in the recipe for success. From videoconferencing platforms to applications that enable collaboration for team members, technology brings the office to individuals. This also removes the commute from employees, which allows for more hours of productivity.

If you choose to continue working remotely, remember that work-life balance is key to staying productive and efficient. Taking care of your personal well-being is at the forefront of strategy for remote workforces. For more tips and information on working remotely, see our Remote Workforce Action Plan.