Should your business stay remote or should you go back to the office?

Since the start of the pandemic, many companies decided to remain at home to work remotely. Other corporations decided to go back to the office. Some are still trying to decide which option would be best for their business.

If this is the case, perhaps today’s article will help make a decision that’s not only suitable for business owners and employees too. Find out what the benefits and drawbacks of remote and office working are below.

How remote working helps

Office blocks need electricity to operate computers, lights and machines. Utility costs are quite high for a company especially those that have more than 200 employees. Having a remote company helps save money on the high costs of maintaining an office building.

Additionally, money is saved on hardware and consumables such as laptops, ink for printers and stationery. It’s also possible to rent work from home laptops for employees in case there are staff members who don’t have equipment. 

It’s said that working from home improves the quality of life for employees. Staff are able to work in an environment they’re comfortable in. As a result, employees become more productive which boosts output and decreases absenteeism.

Some of the drawbacks you may experience

Some drawbacks may experiences by a remote company. For example, some employees might not know how to fix computer errors. There won’t be an IT specialist on hand to assist them.

Some remote supervisors have difficulty managing accountability. Managers aren’t around employees during working hours so they won’t know if they’re actually working.

To solve this problem, ensure managers have regular Skype or Zoom meetings with their staff simply to touch base on what work has been done and what is outstanding. This helps a team manage workloads effectively.

How working in an office helps

Some employees prefer to work in a physical office because they want to be around other people. Working in an office allows staff to improve their interpersonal skills. Employees will also have better time management so that they don’t have to take work home with them.

Some of the drawbacks you may experience

An office block may be a liability in many ways. Accidents and unforeseen disasters can happen at the office which may cost money. What’s more, office politics can get in the way of productivity.

Insurance is needed to cover any damages or injuries that happen on office premises. Office politics may be difficult to deal with. But regular meetings, team building and proper communication can help solve issues between employees without causing further upset.

Final thoughts

Is it best to stay in an office or work from home? For those staying remote, how can employees be helped? Ensure staff has everything they need such as Wi-Fi, capable laptops and support.

The editorial unit