The pandemic has changed an awful lot about the way we work. No longer is remote working something that only certain industries or innovative start-ups offer. It’s become part of the mainstream, with major global brands adopting it as a long-term solution.
Embracing remote working
Companies’ approach to remote working varies, but with a common trend of building remote and hybrid working into their operational models.
Amazon, for example, now allows employees whose positions enable them to do so to spend two days per week working from home. Apple, meanwhile, offers many fully remote roles and plans to increase hybrid working.
Facebook has taken the plunge, committing to permanent remote working, as have Twitter, VMware, Upwork and a host of other major players. Slack’s approach is much the same, with permanent remote working for most roles.
Microsoft is taking a hybrid approach, with staff able to spend half of their working week at home – though managers have the authority to approve fully remote roles.
Spotify has taken an interesting approach, offering to pay for co-working spaces, as well as offering office- and home-based options.
Getting remote working right
Of course, embracing remote working is about more than telling staff they can ditch the daily commute. Work Here, Work There Managing Director, Andrew Ferguson, points out:
“Companies offering remote and hybrid working models need to get the basics right. That means everything from ensuring employees have the right equipment and furnishings to having arrangements in place in case their tech needs some urgent TLC.
“Employers also need to think about worker comfort and safety. Doing so can enhance engagement and productivity, while also keeping the company’s insurers happy. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly but it’s one that can deliver extensive benefits when it’s implemented well.”