The world of work is changing, and more Americans than ever are working remotely.
The most conclusive, recent survey conducted by Gallup found that 43 percent of American employees spent at least some time working remotely. With a 4% increase since 2012, employers find themselves more often meeting the demands of many job seekers today.
As an employer, why should this increasing trend in remote work matter? With the unemployment rate at a 50-year low, 2018 taught us that candidates have a choice. Companies need to adapt to a job market where candidates can afford to be selective and make the final call.
“Gallup consistently has found that flexible scheduling and work-from-home opportunities play a major role in an employee’s decision to take or leave a job,” the polling agency wrote in a report on those and other workplace findings. It looks like remote work is here to stay.
If your organization can support remote work, consider the benefits. Here are 3 benefits that make the case for offering flexibility to your employees:
1. Decreasing costs
Offering remote work to your employees can help reduce operating costs and boost your bottom line by freeing up office space. According to Aetna, they reduced their office space by 2.7 million square feet and in result saved $78 million. For smaller organizations, Global Workplace Analytics reports that if a typical business allowed their employees to telecommute for just half of the time, they could save on average $11,000 per year. Your organization can also save on office supplies, furniture, coffee, and janitorial services.
2. Reducing turnover
Remote work is incredibly appealing to candidates and can be the determining factor in their job selection, especially if that candidate is a millennial. A study by Staples Advantage found 76% of remote workers were willing to work overtime and felt more loyal to their company when given the option. Additionally, 80% reported a better work-life balance.
3. Improved productivity
Traditional office spaces tend to be abundant in distractions. From the employee who can’t stop coughing to water cooler gossip, it can be hard for employees to focus for extended periods of time. Remote work gives your employees the freedom to work in an environment where they can be most productive. Also, by removing commute time from your employee’s day, they are able to start their day earlier and fresher, sans traffic-induced stress.
If your organization is considering the benefits of offering remote work, Contact Eastridge today. We’re ready to help you recruit and retain top talent to meet your organization's goals.