The fatal outbreak of the coronavirus brought many drastic changes to the world as a whole. It has transformed the whole lifestyle of people universally. One extremely impacted entity was business, companies, brands, etc, All businesses switched from cubicles to computers, conference rooms to Google Meets, and office premises to a remote working scenario.
Work no longer was limited to the physical and tangible presence of people or resources. A sturdy laptop and good Wi-Fi bandwidth were enough to continue business across cities collectively without the hindrance of lockdown.
Though it took a series of adjustments and frustrations to adopt remote work, today it has become a popular choice of work system for many companies. Currently, even top companies are providing permanent and part-time work-from-home jobs along with on-site jobs. Hybrid jobs are also in-demand for better work-life balance.
The statistics of remote work have been altered by 360-degree angle after covid. Also, many myths about working from home have created a wrong perception for job seekers. The challenges of remote work are still unknown and hazy for every aspirant preferring to work from home. You have come to the right place to get all current insights of remote work, clear confusion by our myth busters, and have accurate facts to make an informed decision for your work-life accordingly.
Remote Work Statistics
The current statistical facts of remote work for 2022 are: Around 16% of companies in the world have completely gone remote. The industries with maximum remote job availability are healthcare(15%), Information technology(10%), and finance(9%).
The population of remote workers has drastically increased by 159%, compared to the last decade. 77% of employees feel that their productivity is more in work from home work. 74% of employees believe that their retention period towards the company is likely to extend in a remote job. 99% of people believe that they would opt for a lifetime remote job, despite the factor of part-time.
GenZ workers are looking for more work-from-home opportunities and 69% of Millennials are ready to switch to work-from-home jobs giving up other work benefits. 85% of managers agree that virtual teams and meetings with remote workers are dominating the work environment. The main challenges of remote work were identified as unwinding after work (22%), loneliness (19%), and smooth communication(17%).
MYTHS and FACTS Of Remote Work
Organizations and Employees around the world have their definition of work from home. The difference in ideas and opinions has led to many misconceptions, where reality is far-fetched. It’s important to put light on the real facts about working from home.
#Myth1: Collaboration is only possible in the physical workplace.
People believe that online teams and meetings are just façades of coordination and it’s impossible for people to work in sync without attending the office.
#Fact: Most companies and employees believe that the coordination level has increased from communicating virtually as people listen more and speak less. There are options to optimize audio permissions and schedule meetings timely. The accurate technology has provided 24*7 contact access to employees and managers.
#Myth2: Work from Home and Hybrid Employee have low productivity
Many companies still think that there is a negative impact on productivity when employees work remotely.
#Fact: Employees and employers have seen a leap in their earnings and productivity. As per statistics, companies providing work-from-home jobs generate an additional $2000 in revenue per remote worker.
#Myth3: Remote and Hybrid Workers are not recognized and valued as Site Workers
Misconceptions have led job seekers to think that if they work remotely, their opinions won’t be considered.
#Fact: Irrespective of location and position, the contribution of every employee is given equal importance. In fact, 85% of work-from-home workers feel their opinions matter, compared to only 74% of officegoers.
#Myth4: Engagement Rate is Low in Remote Employees
Remote employees are seen as less enthusiastic.
#Fact: Facts are quite opposite. Around 78% of remote and hybrid employees have shown a high engagement rate since the growth of remote work.
Advantages of Remote Work
For Business
High Productivity: The productivity and results from the remote and hybrid employees are higher as compared to on-site employees. This is achievable due to fewer distractions, Fewer breaks thus, longer working hours, and less time consumption in traveling and settling All this leads to more productivity.
Cost Effective: Companies save huge expenditure through work-from-home opportunities. Cost is saved on infrastructure development, maintenance, canteen, and other miscellaneous resources. Thus, it’s a win-win situation for them.
Increased employee loyalty: Employees are willing to continue in the company for a longer period as they get work satisfaction. Thus, the retention rate is booming. Sustainable business model: Since people don’t have to travel, the greenhouse gas emissions fall from the commute. Thus, it contributes to social well-being.
For Employees
High Morale and Better Health: The morale and enthusiasm of workers are up as they get time to relax and restart in between work. The fatigue is minimized, thus keeping workers energetic.
Promotes Savings: Workers save money on conveyance, lunch, etc. They can save money for other purposes.
Better Work-Life Balance: Work-from-home employees are not bound to commute every day to the office, cutting off from their personal time. It allows them to make time for other life pleasures like family, friends, hobbies, and traveling. This is undoubtedly one of the most appealing perks of remote jobs.
Flexible Working Hours: Most Remote jobs enable workers to opt for their comfortable shifts. People can complete pending work at night if they somehow face any unsuitable situation during office hours. So, flexibility reduces pressure.
Challenges of Remote Job
Communication and Collaboration: Sometimes workers do not grasp properly from online meetings. Internet issues often cause hindrances in communicating smoothly across cities. Reduced Team Spirit and Interpersonal Development: The interaction between employees is minimal and restricted as in-person meets are required for ice breaking. Thus, a lack of social connections makes it difficult to achieve team spirit and goals. It may also result in conflicts.
Loneliness and Depression: Staying at home without interaction with people physically can take a toll on people’s mental health. This often happens to an employee who lives away from family or alone.
Over-work: Too much work also decreases quality. Remote and hybrid workers report working 50 hours more per week as compared to on-site workers.
Low Motivation: Usual Routine and lethargy can drop the enthusiasm of remote employees. It’s difficult to feel the goal-driven culture in home comfort.
It’s a Wrap!
Covid-19 unleashed the revolution of Remote working globally. Working digitally became “The New Normal”. Employees started collaborating from different corners of the world. It was thought that this system will fade out as Covid dies. But, even after successful vaccination and mitigation of covid patients, work from home remains a consistent trend. Remote jobs saw a decline but Hybrid Jobs still continue in major companies. Given the statistics, it’s likely that remote workplaces will coexist with traditional work premises.