The remote work revolution is well underway, but many organizations are still hesitant to embrace it. For many employers, however, their resistance amounts to little more than convention. The non-traditional nature of remote work inspires fears of reduced employee productivity, engagement, and accountability. In reality, though, research has shown exactly the opposite to be true.

In 2016, survey start-up TinyPulse surveyed over 500 remote U.S. workers and compared their responses to those of 200,000 traditional employees. What they found is that the remote workers were not only happier than their office-bound counterparts, but also felt more productive. In fact, 91 percent of the remote workers said they were more productive when working outside of the office. They cited quieter working environments, fewer distractions, and less-frequent breaks.

And these findings aren’t unique. Previous studies by the Harvard Business Review, Penn State, and Stanford have also shown that telecommuting increases worker productivity (both per-minute and monthly), job satisfaction, and psychological well-being.

Increased Productivity

Contrary to early skepticism, studies have shown that remote workers often exhibit higher productivity levels than their in-office counterparts. Freed from the distractions of a bustling office environment, employees can focus better and manage their time more effectively. Tools and software for project management, communication, and collaboration have made it easier than ever to maintain productivity from any location.

Cost Savings

Maintaining a physical office space comes with significant costs, including rent, utilities, and office supplies. By shifting to a remote workforce, businesses can drastically reduce these expenses. Additionally, employees save money on commuting, work attire, and daily meals, contributing to overall financial well-being.

Access to a Global Talent Pool

Remote work eliminates geographical barriers, allowing businesses to tap into a global talent pool. This access to diverse skills and perspectives can enhance innovation and problem-solving within the organization. Hiring remote workers also means you can find the best fit for your team, regardless of location.

Improved Work-Life Balance

A remote work setup offers employees greater flexibility, enabling them to balance their professional and personal lives more effectively. This balance leads to higher job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and increased employee retention. Happy employees are more engaged and motivated, which translates into better performance and loyalty.

Environmental Benefits

By reducing the need for daily commutes, remote work significantly lowers carbon emissions and decreases the overall environmental impact of a business. Fewer cars on the road and less energy consumption in office buildings contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Enhanced Flexibility and Resilience

A remote workforce can adapt more quickly to changing circumstances, whether it’s a global crisis or a local event. The ability to continue operations without being tied to a physical location adds resilience to your business, ensuring continuity and stability even during challenging times.

Technology Enables Seamless Collaboration

With the right tools and infrastructure, remote teams can collaborate as effectively as they would in person. Video conferencing, cloud-based file sharing, and instant messaging platforms keep everyone connected and ensure that communication flows smoothly. These technologies also facilitate real-time collaboration, making it easier to work together on projects and share ideas.

Reduced Financial Risk and Streamlined Growth

By using remote, contracted work, employers also enjoy reduced financial risk and more streamlined growth. Companies like Lazar & Company make the choice to go remote even more appealing. By doing the hard work of finding and recruiting top talent, our clients are able to scale without sacrificing valuable time and resources. In the end, the Lazar & Company model provides employers with reduced costs, fewer risks, and greater flexibility to grow.

Although traditionalism still holds some sway over the staffing landscape, the remote approach is steadily becoming the new normal. Old customs can be stubborn, but when a better option comes along, it’s only a matter of time before “the new way” simply becomes “the way.” Embracing a remote workforce is not just a trend; it’s a strategic move that offers numerous benefits for both businesses and employees. From increased productivity and cost savings to access to global talent and improved work-life balance, the advantages are clear. By leveraging modern technology and fostering a culture of trust and communication, companies can thrive in a remote work environment and position themselves for long-term success.

Lazar & Company offers expert-level options for organizations looking for bookkeeping, content marketing and administrative support. To learn more about our virtual solutions, go here.