We can build a better remote workforce. We have the technology. Seriously, we have Skype and Go to Meeting and online productivity tools. Telecommuting is gaining popularity with both employees and employers, as it can offer benefits to both. It is not just about getting rid of the terrible commute for employees or reducing office space for employers (although those are both legitimate benefits), it can also:
- Increase productivity. Although there can be a mindset among employers that if they can’t see you, you’re not working, a study at the University of Texas, Austin showed that telecommuters actually work 5-7 more hours a week than in-office workers. They are also more likely to return to their desk after a doctor’s appointment instead of taking the rest of the day off. Not to mention that eating lunch at your desk isn’t that onerous when you work at home.
- Improve morale. One of the big reasons employees need to work from home often revolves around work-life balance: the kids need to be picked up from school at 3:30, your elderly mom has a doctor’s appointment. Giving employees the flexibility to handle these situations makes them feel valued and increases their feelings of loyalty to the company they work for.
- Reduce Turnover. Because telecommuting employees are generally happier and less stressed than their in-office counterparts, they are far less likely to jump ship. A happy workforce is a stable workforce, which will save the company money (and headaches) in the long run.
- Reduce Costs. While the stereotype of the work-at-home employee rolling out of bed and working in pajamas is a bit overblown, it is true that telecommuting will save the employee money on business attire and dry cleaning. In addition to that, there will be savings related to transportation (gas for the car or money for public transportation) and daily lunches. For the employer, reduced overhead is the big one. According to this article at Entrepreneur.com, businesses could save an average of $11,000 per year for every employee they allow to work from home just half the time.
Have you thought about telecommuting but don’t have room for a home office? Is your employer willing to give it a try? Storage units to the rescue again! You might want to discuss the possibility of your employer reimbursing you for your storage rental fees for a trial period. This would allow you to move some things out of a spare room or area (without getting rid of them) while you try out a home office arrangement. This could be a win-win for you and your employer.
Dollar Self Storage has locations conveniently located in Arizona, Southern California, and Nevada. Talk to any of our friendly managers, they will be happy to assist you and your employer. Dollar Self Storage understands the needs of businesses, both large and small.