Setting New Hire Goals For Long-Term Success

Chris Freitas • Dec 18, 2023

Remote work has become more than just a trend—it's a paradigm shift that has fundamentally altered the way businesses operate. But many businessowners are rightfully concerned about how this “new normal” will impact their team’s productivity – will this pivot ultimately be positive, or simply another bite out of your bottom line? 


Surprisingly, the data suggests that not only can remote workers maintain productivity, but they may even exceed expectations. Let’s discuss this trend and how your business can make the most of a remote team. 


 


What employers need to know about remote work productivity 

Initially, the idea of employees working from home may seem counterintuitive to the notion of productivity. Surely, there are more distractions in one’s personal space, and the desire to wander away from work every few minutes must be overwhelming. Right? 


Wrong. Various studies have consistently demonstrated a positive correlation between remote work and increased productivity. Ergotron’s study, for instance, found that 40% of employees work longer hours at home than in the office, with an average increase of 48.5 minutes per day. This translates to more than 193 additional working hours annually for full-time employees. 


Moreover, remote work has shown a remarkable impact on work-life balance. According to a survey by Great Place to Work, remote employees experience a much healthier work-life balance compared to their office-bound counterparts. Notably, this improvement in balance has not come at the expense of increased stress; in fact, a Nitro study found that remote workers reported lower stress levels, with 29% feeling moderately stressed, down from 33% in the pre-remote work era. 


 


Supporting remote employees for optimal productivity 

While the benefits of remote work are evident, managers play a crucial role in ensuring that employees remain productive and engaged. Establishing structured daily check-ins can provide a sense of routine and connection, whether through one-on-one calls or team meetings. This regular communication helps employees feel supported and keeps everyone aligned with organizational goals. 


Providing diverse communication technology options is equally important. While email serves its purpose, it’s difficult to connect with your team members through a bit of text. (There’s also reason to believe that work email is taking up too much of your team’s time without increasing their productivity.) Richer communication tools like video conferencing can bridge the gap created by physical distance and bring your team a little closer. Visual cues and eye contact can make a big difference in helping your team get to know one another beyond their name and a profile pic. 


Providing emotional support is another vital aspect of managing remote teams. Making an effort to reach out to your employees about concerns before they come to you can greatly improve their working experience. You can demonstrate that you’re invested in their wellbeing before they think to bring it up for themselves, which goes a long way toward building a healthy relationship with your team. 


 


Improving productivity from every angle 

As businesses continue to embrace remote work, optimizing productivity becomes paramount. If your company is seeking reliable methods to boost productivity and enhance employee well-being, exploring a robust employee benefits plan can be a strong strategic move. KBI Benefits agents specialize in creating customized plans that not only save your company up to 40% on related expenditures but also contribute to a healthier, more productive team. Speak with an agent today to learn more. 


In the era of remote work, understanding the dynamics that drive productivity and actively supporting your remote employees can set your company on a path to success. Embrace the change, invest in your team's well-being, and witness the positive transformation in both productivity and employee satisfaction. 

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