The Covid-19 pandemic has meant that thousands of South Africans work from home, where they are as productive — or possibly even more productive — than they were before.
Renée Caprari from LexisNexis SA says that many “studies support the notion that telecommuting workers are more productive and have higher morale and less absenteeism. It also shows that organisations that allow telecommuting have less employee turnover”.
A Stanford University study found that employees who work from home are more productive and use fewer sick days than their office-bound colleagues. “These employees were also happier and quit less than those who went into the office on a regular basis,” says Caprari.
She has the following advice:
- Many companies are rethinking office space — both in terms of location and size — as remote working becomes more prevalent.
- Telecommuting means companies have access to a much larger group of potential employees. If someone has a reliable internet connection they could work for a company almost anywhere in the world. Companies are no longer limited to the best available candidate, as they can hire the best person for the job, in the world.
- Remote working also saves companies on utilities and equipment costs.
- However, telecommuting is not for everyone. The process requires thorough planning, and some workers may lack the self-discipline and maturity to work away from the office.
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