Remote work is more popular than ever before, but it’s also a significant change from the traditional office. Many companies are reluctant to shift towards remote work due to misunderstandings about how the process works.
There are many questions related to this way of doing work in companies. But, still, the pandemic shows us that everything can be done, especially office work in most cases. So, why are there still many companies that don’t accept remote work as a part of their processes?
Here are seven myths about fully-remote work to bust before your next Zoom meeting.
Myth #1: Fully remote companies look unprofessional
Many company owners feel that housing their business in a brick-and-mortar building helps create a professional appearance. Customers can feel uneasy trusting a business that operates out of a private home.
Fortunately, a virtual office subscription allows you to create the appearance of a local office, including the ability to receive mail to a business address. Virtual office providers such as iPostal1 enable clients to select from thousands of real street addresses throughout the US and worldwide. Investing in a virtual office is also an excellent strategy for helping fully or partially remote businesses expand into new markets.
Myth #2: Fully remote companies spend more
Switching to remote work does require an initial investment. You’ll likely need to purchase:
- Increased cloud storage/server space
- Subscription to software platforms
- Computers and peripherals (such as webcams) for employees
Despite these initial costs, most companies find that remote work ultimately saves money. You’re free from many expenses associated with traditional office space when you work from homes, such as rent, utilities, and office equipment.
Myth #3: Fully remote companies are less productive
Do workers slow down and work less without oversight in a physical office? Loss of productivity is a common concern among employers thinking of transitioning to remote work. Interestingly, research tells a different tale.
The Harvard Business Review published a study that revealed remote workers spend 12% less time in meetings. These employees also spend 9% more time interacting with customers. While only you can decide if your office culture lends itself to a remote work environment, the research doesn’t indicate a global productivity loss when working from home.
Myth #4: Fully remote companies have weak cultures
Many company owners feel remote work can hurt company culture, often established through regular, informal communication.
Fortunately, developing an excellent company culture is possible with a remote workforce. Frequent communication through Slack, Zoom and similar programs allow employees to interact and develop friendships.
Myth #5: Employees dislike fully remote companies
Employers are often reluctant to make a massive switch to remote work because they’re afraid employees won’t like it. While some people prefer the separation an office provides between work and home, the vast majority of employees prefer a flexible working environment that allows for flexibility and self-sufficiency.
Myth #6: Fully remote companies are less creative and innovative
What type of environment fosters new ideas? Many employers believe groups must meet in person and bounce ideas off one another to achieve maximum creativity.
However, working from home can lead to more creative thinking than in-person meetings. People who might feel shy about speaking up in a discussion often feel more comfortable communicating online. Plus, everyone has an opportunity to organize their thoughts before presenting them.
Myth #7: Fully remote companies don’t give workers enough freedom
Not every role in your organization is suitable for remote work. Fortunately, hybrid options allow remote and traditional employees to work together efficiently and effectively.
The key to success is identifying the types of jobs that can happen remotely and then developing straightforward methods for communication and collaboration.
Wrap up
Remote work is here to stay. Don’t let myths about remote practice hold you back from remote work opportunities for your employees. You can cut costs, enhance productivity, and improve employee job satisfaction.
