With 2020 coming to a close, many of us are now taking the time to reflect on our new workplace environment. Whether it be by choice or directive, there have been countless organizations and businesses making the move to encourage their staff (and or customer base) to engage from a digital workspace. Although many relate this new trend to the ever-changing battle against the novel coronavirus, you may be surprised by recent studies showing that remote learning and working environments have been on the rise for quite some time…

Fascinating Remote Work Stats 

(Sources: US Census Bureau/Bureau of Labor Statistics/FlexJobs/Global Workplace Analytics)

• 44% growth in remote work over the last 5 years
• 91% growth in remote work over the last 10 years
• 159% growth in remote work over the last 12 years
• The current U.S. Workforce consists of 4.7 million (or 3.4% of the U.S. population) remote workers
• 88% of the organizations, worldwide, made it mandatory or encouraged their employees to work/learn from home after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic
• 77% of remote workers report being more productive
• $11,000 is how much companies can save annually for each employee that works remotely half-time

According to the data available, it’s evident that there are a variety of benefits in businesses allowing for its operation to function remotely, but I find myself asking, is it sustainable? For those that desire the human interaction in their workplace, do they feel more or less challenged by the growing trend to work remotely? What can a business do to keep its staff and customer base engaged? Do the benefits outweigh the lack of personal interaction? 

Remote work comes with its own challenges… 

• Employees or customers feeling ignored and isolated due to limited interaction
• Assisting staff with arranging a functional work from home space 
• Keeping the company culture alive and well
• Defining how you work together and why it’s important to prioritize meaningful work to remain inspired

For those industries faced with the challenge of not being able to operate remotely, what can we learn from them and how can the businesses that are allowed to follow the trend of remote work support them? All important factors to consider when providing guidance, expectations, and tools for your staff and customer base to follow as you continue to navigate the age of a digital workspace. 

Whichever way you cut the data, one thing that remains evident is that this challenge is not a one-size-fits-all type of response. It will take a unique approach from most businesses to ensure their operation adapts to the uncertain times and to continuously find ways to keep their company culture thriving.