Employees who work remotely, even just some of the time, fire up the burners on productivity on the job. In fact, studies show that remote workers might be the highest performing workers out there.
When it comes to staying connected, communicating clearly, and meeting deadlines, remote workers are often at the top of the charts. How do they do it, and why should you think about more remote work at your job?
1. They Have to Communicate Clearly and Frequently
Remote workers have to do more than just shout over a cube wall at a coworker. They have to make sure that they communicate questions, pass tasks, and keep a line open for responses. The best remote workers use technology to make sure that their boss can not only get in touch with them just as fast as if they were in the office, but that they can also ask questions clearly and concisely.
As for how they communicate, that’s up to personal preference. There are so many free and easy programs you can use to stay on the same page, on top of calls and emails. Video chats are easier than ever, and companies who are spread across time zones (or countries) use video to include stakeholders in meetings all the time, so why not incorporate that tech for remote workers down the street, too?
2. Remote Workers Get the Benefit of Peace and Quiet
With so many offices going “open” with their floorplans, the din of the everyday workplace can be a problem for those of us who like to be able to focus every now and then. Add in unique office perks like ping pong tables and conversation corners, and you spread that noise around the office quite a bit.
As noted by Brian de Haaff in Inc Magazine, “With no office distractions and greater autonomy, remote workers have the freedom to get more done. This is something most people crave. According to a nationwide survey, 65 percent of workers said that remote work would give their productivity a boost. Another 86 percent said that working alone allows them to hit maximum productivity.”
The benefit to remote workers is that they get a chance to work in an environment of their choice. Set the thermostat to that perfect temperature, put on your favorite classical music radio station, hear the bubble of the coffee maker and the snores of the dog, and you’re ready for a productive day cranking out the TPS report of your dreams.
3. Working Remotely Stops the Spread of Colds and Flu (Which is Good for Your Office)
A video report by NPR this past winter, when the 2018 flu season was in full swing, noted that you’re contagious even after your symptoms start to fade. Workers who only have a few (or no) sick days might feel the pressure to get back to work, but getting back to the office isn’t good for containing that contagion. Instead of forcing everyone in to cough and sneeze on each other, remote workers get the benefit of getting in some productive hours from home, while they recover from illness without infecting others.
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK
Do you work remotely? Why do you like it (or not)? Share your stories with our community on Twitter, or leave your comment below.
I worked remotely for over a decade, and it was great. Now I work for a small company where the boss is convinced that remote workers are less productive. I waste over an hour per day (and the associated gas) commuting to work, sit in front of a much smaller display than either of the displays in my home office, and rarely talk to anyone (since there is only one other employee here, anyway—and it’s not the boss, who comes… Read more »
I hate the open plan office, I prefer the peace and quiet and being able to hear myself think.
Plus I am also an introvert
Working remote some of the time really fires up my productivity AND engagement. It gives me the autonomy to work where and how I best perform, at peak energy times. I’m not trapped in an office at low energy times.