Gone are the days when a company could be measured by the number of employees in its office. Today, thanks to the technological advances at our fingertips, office employees could represent just a small fraction of a company. Mobile workers are rapidly growing in numbers as businesses increasingly accommodate remote and contract employees. I, for one, am very happy to see this trend gaining momentum as I think it benefits productivity and workplace culture
To those reluctant to embrace employee autonomy, you may think twice after reading through the potential upsides. Here are just a few:
Productivity
The most common reason for not embracing mobile workers is the fear that working at home is not as productive. While this may be true for some, it can be exactly the opposite for others. Many at-home employees tout that they are free from noisy open offices and colleague distractions, supporting a deeper concentration level. These workers also often begin work earlier and end later because they do not commute. When possible, we must allow employees to work in the environment most suited to their productivity. It should be an open dialogue that we’re willing to engage in.
Technology
One of the most inherent reasons to embrace autonomy is that it’s rather simple to roll out. We have the technology at home needed to enable mobile workers — fast internet connections, cloud-based software, bountiful WiFi access, capable laptops, portable speakerphones and secure wireless headsets for professional calls. These tools allow employees to work easily in an office, at home or on a business trip, without interruption.
Work-Life Balance
Autonomy isn’t simply a synonym for working from home. It’s encouraging employees to control their schedules and structure their work days to meet work and personal life needs. Autonomy shows that the company values employees’ time and precious work-life balance. Flexibility builds an environment where employees want to work and thus lowers turnover. It also enables employees to take better care of themselves, helping to minimize sick days and unexpected leave.
Company Culture
Showing respect and trust in employees to grant autonomy is a significant factor in company culture and positive employee morale. You’re creating a workplace where workers are in charge of their schedules, given the optimal environment for productivity and enabled to meet personal obligations. Employees are more apt to commit to the company because they’re in a thoughtful, respective culture.
Technology, evolving industries and the growth of on-demand work are breaking the traditional 9-5 boundaries. Employees are capable of having more autonomy than ever before, and businesses that take advantage and use it correctly will see increased productivity and employee happiness.