Remote work – Added perk for an employee or extra burden for the company?
Southwestern Recruitment
Remote work has brought the concepts of flexibility and new working models to the forefront, offering new opportunities but also requiring a thoughtful and strategic approach. Companies looking to maintain productivity in a remote setting must find ways to preserve and even strengthen their corporate culture across distances.
In Estonia, the post-pandemic era has sparked a revolution in work formats: 65% of companies now offer flexible working hours, Southwestern Recruitment being one of these companies. Reports from Statistikaamet and Arenguseire Keskus show that this shift is here to stay. However,
with flexibility comes its own set of challenges,
such as balancing work and personal life, which requires careful attention to prevent burnout, or maintaining a strong sense of belonging.
Why does corporate culture matter?
Corporate culture shapes employees’ sense of belonging. According to a Gallup study, engaged teams demonstrate a 14% increase in productivity and an 81% decrease in absenteeism. During remote work, maintaining a unified spirit can be tricky, making it crucial for employees to feel included and valued. Virtual interactions and team-building events can help keep the bonds strong.
Consider hosting informal online meet-ups or fostering a sense of camaraderie through joint projects. One fun way to do this is to encourage a quick coffee date with a colleague who lives nearby. These small initiatives can significantly boost employee satisfaction and a feeling of connection.
The right resources and human support
Remote work doesn’t thrive solely on technical solutions. Enhancing employee satisfaction also requires a human touch and empathetic leadership. While efficient tools, swift IT support, and ergonomic setups are essential, equally important is the flexibility of work hours and environment. When employees know they have the option to make adjustments to their schedules as needed, it fosters a sense of well-being and a positive perception of the company’s leadership style.
What role does the leader have?
Leaders must ensure they remain accessible, even from a distance. Regular, personalised feedback is crucial to keeping team morale high and serves as a reminder that everyone is still moving toward shared goals. Conversations that check in on employees' feelings and needs demonstrate care and help build trust.
A strong corporate culture and flexibility go hand in hand in today’s world. Organisations that strike the right balance between business objectives and employee well-being will create motivated and committed teams. Remote work isn’t just a passing trend; it’s now a well-established work model. Supporting it thoughtfully can contribute to long-term employee satisfaction and, consequently, the company’s success.
