Why companies should offer remote work options
The benefits start at the interview process...
Flexible Scheduling
With video interviewing, businesses can arrange to interview candidates more quickly. Additionally, candidates don’t need to take time off work to travel.
Efficient Screening
Interviewing candidates with a new means of technology makes it easy for employers to see how technologically capable and resourceful applicants are.
Global Talent Pool
Hiring for remote opportunities allows businesses to reach a diverse talent pool outside of their geographical area, opening a new world of possibilities.
and continue once employees are onboarded.
1. Cost Savings
1. Cost Savings
Cost Savings
While real estate is the most obvious way a company can save, businesses can tap into the financial benefits of telework without surrendering the office. By implementing a flexible telework policy, employers could see:
A reduction in unplanned absences
Unscheduled absences have been estimated to cost American employers an average of $1,800 per employee a year. Allowing employees to work remotely can reduce unplanned absences by 63%.
Higher employee retention
Telework has a high impact on employee retention. It is reported that it costs employers 33% of a worker’s annual salary to hire a replacement if that worker leaves. On a median salary, that could equate to $15,000.
2. Increased Productivity
A typical office can be full of distractions. Remote work can promote concentration and increase productivity, by lending more flexibility for employees. For example, some people prefer to get started early in the morning, while others may find their motivation later in the day.
3. Boost In Employee Retention
A remote work plan shows employees that they are valued and trusted to do great work—whether they are in the office, or not. Plus, there are many cost-saving benefits for workers who don't have to commute to the office.
95% of employers say telework has a high impact on employee retention
All Business
The average dollar amount a remote worker can annually save on work-related expenses
All Business
Money can be saved on things such as commuting, business clothing, food/beverage, childcare, and time-saving tools. Remote work is also known to lead to an improved quality of life! Employees have the freedom to relocate if needed, and can use the time saved on a commute for extra family time or hobbies.
The average dollar amount a remote worker can save annually on work-related expenses
All Business
The average dollar amount a remote worker can save annually on work-related expenses
All Business
The average dollar amount a remote worker can save annually on work-related expenses
All Business
4. A Competitive Edge
4. A Competitive Edge
How your competitors run their business could greatly affect yours. Offering a remote work schedule may put you at an advantage, especially when employees consider the many benefits that come with working from home, such as a shorter commute.
Two thirds of employees say they would take a new job in order to ease their commutes.
Global Workforce Analytics
How your competitors run their business could greatly affect yours. Offering a remote work schedule may put you at an advantage, especially when employees consider the many benefits that come with working from home, such as a shorter commute.
Two thirds of employees say they would take a new job in order to ease their commutes.
Global Workforce Analytics
Tips For Getting Started
Put The Right Technology In Place
Technology has given us the ability to communicate across various devices, operating systems, and applications. According to a ConnectSolutions study, “80% of remote workers reported feeling more connected to their coworkers, particularly when their remote work practices were supported by unified communications.” Implementing the right collaborative technology such as Slack, or any cloud document sharing tools, can help your organization work efficiently and stay organized and connected. Consider investing in a company-wide software sponsorship program, which allows employees to install important business software on their personal devices.
Implement A Remote Management Plan
To foster a successful remote environment for your employees, ensure they are equipped with the following:
- Disciplinary excellence: While you want to avoid micromanaging, be sure that you’re requesting status updates, and that you have a system in place to measure productivity.
- Clear instructions: Be sure to provide employees with clear guidelines and achievable milestones. While they won’t physically be in the office, you’ll need to be able to demonstrate leadership from afar. You can do this by regularly checking in and making yourself available for questions and team meetings.
Establish A Remote Interview Process
Much like a regular hiring process, be prepared and have a strategy for promoting and following up on your role(s):
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Keep candidates well-informed at each stage of the interview process—you’ll want to give off the same impression about the company’s mission and values, that you would in-person.
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Make sure you have the right video interview technology in place to host remote candidates.
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Ensure a place is available to hold interviews that is quiet and doesn’t include distractions.