The Global Benefits of Remote Work
By: Laurel Farrer
Shorter commutes, no dress code, unsupervised breaks… the reasons for workers to work from home are often a bit selfish. But don’t let these little luxuries fool you into thinking remote work is an indulgent work model. Those of us who advocate for remote work don’t do so because we believe in the right to wear sweatpants. Instead, we are fueled by the enormous impact officeless companies can have on local and global societies.
Here are just a few of the things we love about remote work...
...for the World
Cultural collaboration - Based on results-only work models without the restrictions of geographic location, distributed companies have the unique opportunity to support more diverse staffs than ever before in history.
Economic stimulation - Distributed companies can offer employment to workers in areas where stable or high-income employment is otherwise unavailable. In turn, local economies can grow without having to attract new brick-and-mortar businesses.
Environmental sustainability - The average commute creates at least 4.7 metric tons of emission per year. To account for the number of global commuters, this number is currently multiplied by the millions. But as the world continues to urbanize, it may soon be in the billions. Reducing commutes for as many employees as possible can make a significant difference in controlling greenhouse gasses.
Natural disasters - Regional economies no longer have to come to a screeching halt when a natural disaster sweeps the area. With the right resources, employees in affected areas can continue to work and pay local taxes, regardless of the weather.
...for Companies and Teams
Increased output - Without office distractions and with more control over their schedules, employees can more easily get into the deep headspace they need to achieve maximum productivity. Plus, teams on one side of the globe can pass the baton to their counterparts on the other side of the world when they’re ready to clock out, so your business can enjoy round-the-clock progress.
Easier scaling - When a company is ready to grow, hiring new employees can happen without the need to find a larger office space. And, acquiring more customers is not dependent on geographical proximity to your target demographic.
Expands recruiting pool - The perfect employee exists, but maybe not within a five or ten-mile radius of HQ. Geographic location shouldn’t qualify or disqualify any candidate for a role. Removing this criterion from recruiting allows hirers to instead focus on education, experience, and culture match.
Lower overhead costs - Reducing expenses on the lease, utilities, and security of an office can make a world of difference in the net profit of your business.
Employee retention - High turnover rates can block your workflow funnels and slow your sales. With remote work, you don’t have to lose your employees when they have to move away or want to go back to school.
...for Remote Workers
Lower stress - Distributed companies cannot thrive without cultures based on trust and autonomy, which empowers employees to feel more confident and secure in their jobs.
Advancement opportunities - Remote work is conducive to results-only work environments. Employees are evaluated on the actual work performed, rather than on social or physical criteria (like going golfing with the boss or staying late at the office.) This opens the door for any worker to climb the ladder without having to sacrifice more time or resources.
Better PTO - No need to use up that precious paid time off when your child has to stay home from school or you have a check up at the dentist. Just work from home as usual or make up the hours later that night. Then, save your PTO for more memorable events and trips.
Work-life balance - After an 8-hour day in the office and a 2-hour commute, most workers have little time to focus on themselves. Flexible work schedules and no commute time means employees have more time to focus on their families, hobbies, and self-improvement.
Extended working age - While remote work is in high demand by the incoming millennial workforce, it’s also being utilized by workers who are nearing or passing retirement age. This supports financial security for both the worker and the economy.
These reasons are exactly why Yonder exists and why our team feels so passionate about our work. We’re honored to advocate a work model that has such far-reaching impact on both micro- and macro-levels in the world of business and economy.
Why do YOU support remote work? Tweet us @yonder_io to share your #remotework story!