Over the last several months, major corporations swiftly transitioned to remote working arrangements while trying to adjust to the new norm of a pandemic-ridden society. Although the shift has had its own challenges, those who have found their footing will come out stronger than ever.
The future of work has long been predicted to be a place of flexible and remote working fueled by technology. While research indicated this transition to be slow and steady, the pandemic accelerated these changes quicker than anyone would have predicted.
Now, according to a survey from Global Workplace Analytics, 97% of North American office employees are working from home more than one day per week.
Although some data has indicated that remote working has been difficult on working parents who are juggling work and childcare responsibilities, the research indicates that 86% of respondents were more productive at home and saw little interruptions than they did in the office.
However, it is important for business leaders to provide employees with the choice to work from wherever best suits them. Adaptability is key and meeting the needs of all workers not only ensures that they are productive and satisfied, but that the company remains resilient throughout the uncertainty.
“The pandemic is impacting every individual differently, so offering ways to meet employees at their comfort level — for example, by providing the continued ability to work from home — provides meaningful support amidst the uncertainty,” said Kara Hamilton, chief people and culture officer at collaborative software company Smartsheet.
