How can you equip your business to offer more remote working opportunities?
Recent research by Capita looked at employee attitudes towards successful remote working for businesses.
The study found that almost three quarters (71%) of UK workers would like to work remotely. Of these, around two thirds (60%) say they would like a better work-life balance. Almost half (47%) would like to reduce transport costs and carbon footprint issues were a concern for just over a third (35%).
At the time of this study, around two-thirds (68%) of employees worked remotely.
What helps facilitate remote working?
Good communication is vital to successful remote working for businesses.
Technology that works for everybody ensures it is achievable to keep in touch and collaborate. For instance, remote workers must feel they can connect with the rest of their team, other departments, branches, offices, as they see fit. This not only ensures continued productivity, but it also negates feelings of loneliness and isolation. Unfortunately, those who spend a large amount of time away from the office can experience this.
In a survey by The Brew and Rent24, 4 in 5 UK workers cited a concern of losing close relationships and feeling isolated if they work from home. Furthermore, 27% worry they’ll be overlooked for promotion if they do not have a regular presence in the office. Therefore, it is in the interest of businesses to promote a culture of communication. In particular, this will ensures those working remotely can manage a routine, regularly interact with other employees and network. In other words, it will help avoid these negative feelings.
“Today’s workforce is increasingly demanding the ability to work wherever and whenever they want. In the long run, an inability to offer remote, flexible working could leave an organization watching some of its best employees heading for the exit,” said Joe Hemming, executive officer, Capita IT & Networks.
“At a time when employee retention and productivity is front of mind for many organizations, it is imperative that they have the policies in place that encourage rather than hinder flexible working practices.”
Bill Gates is quoted as saying,
“Companies that give extra flexibility to their employees will have the edge in this area.”
What do businesses need in order to facilitate remote working?
Flexible working for your employees relies on the right communications system. In particular, it should offer easy access no matter where you are. It should also be up-to-date and secure, reliable and offer integrated collaboration.
Unified Communications offers all of this and more.
Companies with a collaborative and communicative workforce see improved productivity and efficiency. Unified Communications technology has many advantages over a traditional PBX telephone system, particularly in larger, growing and multi-site organisations.
Increase collaboration – share and access documents across devices and locations
Cost-effective – increased staff productivity, utilising BYOD, hot-desking and reduced travel
Optimise business processes – integration of all communication tools to streamline practices and time management
Improve communication – increased possibilities for teamwork
Flexibility – many applications can be tailored to individual employee requirements, including job role and location
Remote working security basics for employees.
Educate employees working remotely in the necessary security practices required to access company data from a remote location. This should include:
Password protecting all devices, preferably with a two-step authentication process and never leave devices unattended.
Storing files in a trusted secure cloud-based file.
Being aware of the security risks posed by using free public WIFI.
MF Telecom Services offers various Managed IT Services and Unified Communications’ options. This includes from an extensive list of manufacturers. If you would like to know more about how you can implement more flexibility and remote-working options into your business culture, please contact us. You can also email or call 01892 577 577 to speak to an advisor.