Remote or hybrid working models are the new norm, say many employers — and research shows most employees also prefer to work in this way. But, these opportunities must be balanced with the potential risks. Dominic Merlin-Cone looks at the key issues.
Remote working is becoming increasingly popular as a permanent redesign of the way we work. For employees, the end of commuting and increased flexibility makes it very appealing. Effective digital tools for virtual working are also enabling employers to make the most of the benefits it offers them: on top of increased productivity and a more agile workforce, the positive impact on employee wellbeing is also a return on investment.
Long term gains include lower overheads as office space is reduced – or, for hybrid workers, reimagined as collaborative spaces – and access to a larger talent pool. Their recent survey of 603 mid-size business showed that 88% of businesses are expecting a long-term transition to a remote or hybrid working model.
Hybrid working brings together the advantages of working from home and going into an office – so that different people can work in different ways to achieve their goals.
With this fundamental change in how we work, employers who prepare for and manage the risks will benefit the most as the world ‘re-opens’. These include withholding obligations; hybrid working expenses; and employee retention and wellbeing. We’re leading the way on supporting employers to understand, identify and pro-actively manage these risks.
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