Increased productivity, lowered expenses plus improved happiness and moral – welcome to the world of telecommuting!
Given the advancement of communication tools and technology, it’s only natural that most businesses have evolved to include location independent talent. Many of us, with great success.
It’s not just IT and media businesses, either. According to Forbes’ Top 100 Companies For Remote Jobs list, telecommuting is big with everyone from health service providers to e-commerce retailers, while Flexjobs offers professional listings for jobs in 50 career categories.
The Social Agency has supported the digital nomadic lifestyle for a while now. Why? It’s simple. For us, the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks. We strive for a healthy work-life balance, so it makes sense to offer flexibility to our growing team. Most everyone at TSA telecommutes to some extent, whether it’s a couple days a week or permanently, like some of our writers. (Hello from sunny Australia!)
Have we piqued your interest? Here some things to consider if you’re curious about working remotely.
Key Advantages:
Greater Flexibility = Greater Productivity: Many people tend to work harder when they are evaluated on results and productivity versus number of hours spent in the office.
Increased Autonomy = Greater Fulfillment: Telecommuting negates the need for micromanagement, direct supervision and offers a less stringent working environment. For many people, this freedom and independence brings fulfillment and productivity.
Lowered Expenses & Enviro Impact: Say goodbye to formal attire (woo hoo!). Plus, there are no commuting expenses or parking fees. Telecommuting means a lower overall impact on the environment and increased available income for both the individual and employer. Win!
Larger Talent Pool: When you cast your net geographically wider, you can find the talent you need. For TSA, we’ve been able to access some amazing talent around the world.
Possible Disadvantages:
Sense of Isolation: For some, working remotely can be lonely and issues may develop associated with solitude. Solution: change up your location and opt to co-work with others periodically.
Distractions: The home environment has plenty of distractions (housework, renovations, food) and it is definitely not for everyone. Solution: designate a work-only area, and be diligent about blocking out high productivity times.
Brainstorm Reduction: The traditional office environment offers brainstorming opportunities you’ll miss out on when working alone- unless you’re diligent. Solution: schedule regular team brainstorming sessions via Skype or phone.
Inhibits Connections: Feeling detached from the company you work with/for can occur when you don’t get regular face-to-face time. This could negatively impact career growth and development. Solution: schedule regular progress meetings via Skype, phone or in-person, if possible.
Working from home may not be for everyone. For our business and team, it’s allowed us to access a greater talent pool and provide greater freedom to our team- and who doesn’t want a little more of that?
