According to a 2019 Global State of Remote Work report, 68% of workers around the world have worked remotely. Although this number is huge and keeps on rising, myths are still pretty much present everywhere.
Remote Work Myth #1: Remote Workers are Lazy and Unproductive
Supported by Studies
A statistic result by GitLab’s latest Remote Work Report found out that out of its 3,000 survey participants worldwide, 52% of the remote workers found themselves productive. Whereas, 48% considered themselves more efficient. Moreover, a 2 – year Stanford study showed that remote work improved employees productivity by 13%.
Also, contrary to the belief that remote work means shorter time, a study released by Coso Cloud stated otherwise. According to what they found out, 23% of remote workers say that they work longer hours compared in an office based setup.
Remote Work Myth #2: Remote Workers Should ALWAYS Be Monitored
Since people believe that remote work is equal to laziness and being unproductive, they assume that managers and supervisors should always monitor their team. It is true that remote workers are monitored but not in the way that most individuals think. There are two ways that remote working is tracked. One is through a time and attendance management software. The other one is just purely constant communication.
Time tracking is essential. However, it is also a lesson for remote employers to not go overboard when supervising their staff. Rather than actually encouraging them to be more productive, the constant need for updates can be overwhelming for them. So, you should also know when is the right time to ask and monitor. And it should not be every hour.
Remote Work Myth #3: Remote Work Kills Company Culture
Many believe that since workers are sitting all day and facing their computers that relationships inside the company don’t exist. Like, how can these people actually be friends when they only meet virtually? How can they enjoy holiday parties when they don’t see each other physically? In reality, companies actually establish a set of tone that everyone can adopt.
Moreover, they don’t just stay at home forever. Usually, they would gather together to celebrate a birthday party. Or the company will book an all – expense paid for their team building. For a more serious purpose, employees sometimes meet in person to talk about change of company policies, new clients, work arrangements, and so on.
Remote Work Myth #4: Remote Work Cannot Secure Data Privacy
Probably one of the horrors that people avoid when it comes to working remotely is the possible threats in their data privacy. Unlike when working at an office, computers are equipped with software that can track down malicious elements trying to steal data from the company.
Before even sending out confidential files, the personal devices of remote workers are installed with protective software (i.e. anti – virus) to minimize breaches. Moreover, companies will usually secure their online system with a two – factor authentication or Virtual Private Networks (VPN) to make sure that unauthorized people cannot enter. If an additional security measure is still needed, companies can provide a device that is equipped with walls of protective tools installed by IT professionals.
Remote Work Myth #6: Remote Work Is Not For Managers
When skeptics question the productivity of remote workers, they also tend to feel that managers cannot do their jobs properly in this setup. Many assume that since employees and managers are not working in the same place, the latter is incapable of effectively managing its people.
The thing is, management is not something that will only work when you meet face to face. It’s not a process of constantly visiting your employee’s cubicle and sitting beside them 24/7. An effective management means that you can give the right tools and coaching to improve your team’s productivity.
Remote Work Myth #7: Remote Work Means No “Work – Life Balance”
It is believed that you cannot set a line between doing personal stuff (i.e. exercising, watching movies, family time) because your home doesn’t feel like one anymore. However, “work – life balance” is applicable to everyone. It doesn’t come easy, though. But it’s actually a matter of setting your priorities and managing your time correctly.
Remote Work Myth #8: Remote Work Limits Training Opportunities
It’s a common concern of many that employees who don’t physically go to office cannot be trained. Then, if they don’t get regular training, their performance will go down. But just like communication issues, training can also be facilitated online.
Coaching or training team members should not only be limited to video calls. You can send out manuals, exams, online courses, videos, and other materials that they can use. When they don’t understand something, they can just message or call you right away. According to a survey conducted by Talent LMS, 87% get regular training.
Working from home has never been a hindrance for employees to learn more. Rather, they are open to many resources online and offline that they can always utilize.
Rely On Facts Not Myths
Studies have proven that many companies choose to leave the office setup. Because of the fact that remote work results to a more productive workforce, cheaper cost, time flexibility, and so on. But if you are still having doubts in shifting, do not be in a hurry. Consider everything you need. And you can start by getting rid of these myths and misconceptions about remote work.