Even though many businesses and people have been working remotely for some time now, it is very much an ongoing process. There is a need for people and companies to recognise there are challenges created by remote working, and these challenges must be overcome.
It is always helpful to speak with your colleagues to determine their thoughts. There might be problems that are relevant for the entire team, or a majority of people. If there is, these should be the issues you focus on first.
However, if you are looking for a starting point when it comes to overcoming challenges in the remote working space, there have been various studies in this field.
The Buffer State of Remote Working Report 2019 is a useful guide on what people think about remote working. While the working landscape has changed considerably since this report was published, it provides insight into the main challenges of remote working.
What do people think of working from home?
Right now, there are short-term issues that need to be dealt with in how we manage the COVID-19 pandemic. However, alongside some of the short-term issues are more permanent issues which will remain in place as the business world moves forward.
It is likely remote working will remain a key factor in working practices, so it is best businesses understand the challenges presented by remote working, as this will help them to overcome these problems.
The study asked, “What’s your biggest struggle with working remotely?”, and as you would expect, the answers were illuminating.
People struggle to switch off after work
22% of respondents said their biggest struggle was switching off after they have finished work. This is a common complaint. When the boundaries between work and home-life blur, many people find it a struggle to stop working or to completely forget about work.
Employees need to realise the importance of setting up a specialist workspace. When they are in this space, they are working, and when they are out of this area, they should forget about work. Taking this approach creates clearer barriers when working remotely.
19% of respondents cited loneliness. This is an important issue for firms to consider. For many workers, the interaction with other employees is their main source of engagement and human contact. Working remotely can be a lonely task, which means firms need to consider ways to bring their teams together.
17% of respondents cited problems with communicating and collaborating with others. This is an area companies should take the lead, and issue clear instructions on how people should engage with colleagues and clients. Training can be issued in this matter, and if there is a preferred technical solution for communication, it should be stated.
10% of respondents cited distractions at home, which is an issue to overcome. During the lockdown, this might be exacerbated with children not attending school. Going forward, this issue might be lessened when schools return.
If you would like more guidance and training on how to manage remote working and ensure you are delegating tasks efficiently, please contact Global Solution Services today or join onto any of our webinars or on-line training courses, and we will be happy to assist you in achieving your goals, allowing you to care for yourself, and your loved ones.