Episode D.035 Remote Work is the Next Normal

Introduction
Even though the new quarter doesn't start until Wednesday, we are jumping into it with both feet. BTW - that is also the theme for July - Being Agile. Two quick reasons for this theme now. First is we are in new territory when it comes to the economy, social factors, government action and how it is affecting our ability to run a profitable business. The second is how it matches with our previous emphasis around building a "Lean Organization'. The difference is simple - Agile is a mindset that uses the principles of Lean to succeed in unstable times.

Show Objectives
The COVID-19 pandemic has normal business life upside down in so many ways. These dramatic changes have been forced on many individuals and businesses over the last several months. Pulse, an online research and networking platform polled its community and found that:

• Almost 70% of leaders believe that at least a quarter of their staff will shift to full-time remote work after COVID-19. 
• Even with the lifting of restrictions, only 4% of leaders anticipate a full return to work right away. 
• 84% of employers say they plan to enforce a 6-foot distance whenever possible, 64% of employers will take employee temperatures once back in the office, and 35%will employ a contact-tracking system.

While the shift to remote work was very abrupt for most organizations, the transition—if any—back to in-office work will likely be far more gradual.

What You Need to Know
Many companies are taking a more conservative approach transitioning employees back to the offices. A gradual approach allows more time to work out the kinks of a transition. Some studies have shown that employees have varying preferences regarding remote work. While some employees may be concerned about the health risks of working closely with other employees, others prefer working remotely, while others find the lack of in-person interaction draining or find it difficult to focus.

Benefits of Remote Work
Working remotely has been seen to have a lot of advantages not only to employees but also to the companies employing them and the environment at large.

For Employees:

1. Studies show that remote workers are more productive compared to office workers
2. Remote workers save more money compared to office workers
3. Less stress and better work-life balance for some employees
4. Flexible work schedule
5. Better Job Opportunities for professionals living in smaller towns and developing countries

For companies: 

1. Higher employee loyalty and retention rate
2. Cost savings
3. A broader pool of professionals to choose from
4. Improved employee morale

Challenges Employees Face Working Remotely
Remote work also has some disadvantages for employees as they try to balance work and home life in the same location. Common challenges include:

1. Unplugging from work
2. Loneliness
3. Distractions
4. Collaboration and communication

What You Need to Do

1. Put in place policies to support long-term remote work.
2. Align and streamline communication and technology. 
3. Provide productivity applications for remote employees
4. Develop a Culture of Trust
5. Reevaluate current employee roles

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the outlook of remote work for many companies as they learn the pros and cons of working from home and begin planning for a long term remote work experience.

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