Work Travel Getaways

Companies around the world made a temporary shift to remote work during the 2020 pandemic, and many realized it didn’t need to be temporary. The global work shutdown transformed the way we think about workspaces, well-being, and productivity. While many businesses have slowly moved back to hybrid schedules and full-time office mandates, there’s still a case to be made for remote working. Businesses that want to remain competitive and adaptable are open to remote working. Let’s explore the benefits of remote working, backed by research, to help build a strong business case for working remote.

Enhanced Productivity

One of the most compelling arguments for remote working is its positive impact on productivity. Contrary to the belief that office environments are necessary for effective work, a recent Psychology Today survey found that remote working can actually lead to higher productivity levels. Employees working remotely often report fewer distractions, better work-life balance, and flexible scheduling that allows them to work during their most productive hours. This flexibility boosts individual performance and contributes to the overall success of the business.

Support for Well-being

Remote working also plays a significant role in supporting the well-being of employees. Eliminating a daily commute offers employees more time for personal interests, family, and rest, leading to more overall satisfaction with life and work. On top of that, the ability to work in a comfortable, self-designed environment can reduce stress levels and promote mental health. When employees feel their well-being is valued, they are typically more engaged, motivated, and loyal to their employer, which benefits the organization’s culture and performance.

Environmental and Cost Benefits

Productivity and well-being aren’t the only benefits. Remote working offers environmental and company cost-saving advantages, too. Reduced need for office space can lower a company’s overhead costs, including rent, utilities, and office supplies. Moreover, with fewer people commuting, there’s a reduction in carbon emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability. These financial and environmental benefits can be used to support remote working policies.

Making a Business Case for Remote Work

Now that we’ve explored some benefits of remote work, let’s talk about the business case. What is a business case? It’s a brief proposal that outlines the benefits of a proposed initiative, like remote working. The goal of the proposal is to convince management that a certain course of action will be beneficial to the company’s bottom line. It’s crucial to present a well-rounded argument that addresses a company’s concerns while highlighting the benefits to the company. Support your proposal with authoritative sources and statistics to lend credibility to your arguments.

A business case should include the following proof points:

• Explain why remote work is a good option for your position: include benefits to the bottom line. Be sure to address concerns like productivity.
• Outline how you’ll maintain communication and team participation. Have a plan for staying in touch and contributing to projects.
• Propose a trial run for a few weeks to see how it goes. Set out some metrics to track, such as project milestones or deadlines that will be met, to prove that work won’t suffer when you’re remote.

In order to get remote work approved, the most persuasive evidence will be your own metrics of success. Can you still be part of the team and benefit the company’s mission while working from another location?

Remote work can be a good solution for both companies and employees. To get it approved, create a compelling business case and follow through on any performance metrics that are established. If you can prove out the benefits of remote work, it can open the door to location freedom and more control over your workday.