During the COVID-19 pandemic, social media exploded with humourous memes about working from home (#WFH).
From Zoom-friendly outfits of blazers paired with sweatpants to the wholesomeness of children and pets making cameos on calls, there was a meme for it.
While working from home is not a new concept, the practice of it on a wide scale, especially by large corporations, has become controversial.
Many employees didn’t want to lose their newfound flexibility when asked to return to the office.
Some companies, like the outdoors wear brand Cotopaxi, went fully remote during the pandemic.
CEO David Smith, who was against WFH pre-pandemic, told CNN that his teams worked more efficiently than ever.
Without geographical limitations, he diversified his team and hired the right talent more easily. Cotopax has since tripled in size.
However, the Microsoft New Future of Work Report 2022 found that 56% of remote workers experienced heavy workplace loneliness, which is detrimental to motivation and well-being.
It can also lead to high turnover rates and dismantle a positive workplace culture.
Successful remote work depends on variables from the industry to team personality types and your business goals. Consider the following.
𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬:
Greater flexibility can create better work-life balance, preventing burnout.
Trust in your team inspires a positive, empowered culture.
Finding the right fit for a role isn’t limited by location.
Eliminating the commute saves time, money, and energy.
Overhead costs can largely be reduced.
𝐂𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬:
Diminishes impactful relationship development among team members.
Communication delays can stunt progress.
Burnout can result from the blurring of personal and professional boundaries.
Technical difficulties can impede productivity.
Collaborative ideation can be compromised, sacrificing ingenuity and innovation.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of working from home you have experienced?