The COVID-19 pandemic led to numerous workplaces switching from office to remote work. The radical increase in the number of companies allowing work from home spurred the discussion on the widespread implementation of this working practice. The topic was selected as it directly relates to my workplace, which allows for remote work. Nevertheless, working from home option should not be offered by more companies due to the overall negative impact on employee well-being and productivity.
Working from home is associated with several advantages and disadvantages for employees and employers. Although not all companies can embrace the remote work model, those that do benefit from more engaged employees enhanced productivity, work control, work-life balance, and higher retention rates (Ipsen et al., 2021; Spruill, 2022). Nevertheless, a larger body of research points to the disadvantages of remote work for employees and, by extension, employers. It is argued that working from home results in job-related uncertainty and loss of knowledge and intellectual productivity due to the lack of interaction with colleagues (Bolisani et al., 2020; Ipsen et al., 2021). Furthermore, isolation and online connection translate into stress, reduced productivity, and damaged interpersonal relationship in the workplace (Bolisani et al., 2020). Home life constraints and the absence of adequate tools for work can adversely impact one’s ability to work from home (Ipsen et al., 2021). Overall, remote work is not a universally sustainable model for different industries.
In summary, remote work is not always a viable option. It should not be offered by companies that are unprepared to mitigate adverse consequences experienced by employees working from home. Business ventures are recommended to carefully research flexible work and the needs of their staff before extending the option. In addition, companies should consider and provide effective measures to contrast any negative experiences of their employees.
References
Bolisani, E., Scarso, E., Ipsen, C., Kirchner, K., & Hansen, J. P. (2020). Working from home during COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned and issues. Management & Marketing. Challenges for the Knowledge Society, 15(1), 458–476. Web.
Ipsen, C., Van Veldhoven, M., Kirchner, K., & Hansen, J. P. (2021). Six key advantages and disadvantages of working from home in Europe during COVID-19. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4), 1–17. Web.
Spruill, Y. (2022). Why remote work isn’t only beneficial for employees. Forbes. Web.