One of the many advantages of the internet is right there in its name: “inter” means “between” or “among.” Using the network to connect us all together — wherever we are — has many benefits, one of which is being able to work remotely. Recently, the entire adWhite staff had to work remotely for an extended period of time due to a utility problem at our office. I won’t go into details; let’s just say it was malodorous.
Fortunately, just hours after the problem popped up, we were all able to get back to work — remotely. Everyone has a laptop, and we’re all connected via Slack and email for communication. We use Zoom for remote meetings. Much of our work is done in HubSpot, and we keep track of tasks with Asana and record our time with FunctionFox. Those tools are constantly with us on desktop, laptop and mobile, so work follows us wherever we go.
I’ve always worked at an office away from home. Maybe it’s just because I’m an old guy, but I actually like leaving my house and driving to an office. I like having a routine of doing some of the same things every day and seeing my co-workers.
Working remotely has some definite advantages, though. Here are a few:
Being able to work more comfortably. This seems like the most obvious benefit. If you don’t have to worry about what you look like or how you’re dressed, you can concentrate more on getting work done.
Your office can be what works best for you. If you’ve got a great home office already set up, you might be able to just sit down and start work. Or if you prefer to use your laptop on the couch or on the back patio, that works too. The patio option might not be so great in the Texas summer, but it’s still an option.
No commuting. I’m fortunate to enjoy a very short commute to my office. However, when working remotely, the commute is zero miles, saving money on gas and skipping traffic hassles.
It could be good for your health. Without convenient fast food nearby, you might just eat a better lunch at home. Eating healthier and spending more time with family (and not sitting in traffic) can help you feel less stressed, according to a 2011 report by Staples.
Remote employees are more empowered. Working remotely forces us to be more self-sufficient, independent and self-directed. We all know our jobs and can efficiently take care of them without constant supervision.
A flexible schedule aids productivity. Studies have shown that teleworkers are up to 25 percent more productive than their office-bound counterparts. Not counting pets and family members, fewer distractions at home can make for better concentration and higher productivity.
Continuation of service. Despite the infrastructure problem, adWhite remained up and running while our office was not usable, and the majority of our clients experienced no loss of service whatsoever. We just carried on taking care of our customers.
Contact us today to find out how we can help grow your business — wherever we are!
