I remember the day as if it were today: I was sitting on my laptop, writing a marketing concept for a customer when my husband called me from New York. He was visiting friends there, enjoying his favorite city. It was early February 2020 and he said: “Annika, it feels strange to be here. I somehow have the feeling I might not get out of the country by the end of the week.”

Two weeks later, our borders were closed and I was no longer sitting alone at home on my laptop. My husband sat in the next room. Our children interrupted us during work, sometimes one of us, sometimes the other, so happy about the unexpected ‘holidays’ at home.

With the Covid Pandemic our work lives have changed drastically from one day to another. Companies that would never had allowed home office days had to install remote work environments for their teams overnight. Colleagues that were used to face-to-face-meetings didn’t see each other for months.

With social distancing measures and restrictions on gatherings, remote work has become the norm for many organizations. However, remote work is not just a temporary solution during a crisis. It has several benefits that can improve you company culture in the long run, too.

This is why remote work can positively improve your company culture:

1. Improved Work-Life Balance

Remote work allows employees to have more control over their work schedules, which can help improve their work-life balance. They can work during their most productive hours and have more time for personal commitments. For me, working at night after the kids have gone to bed has become indispensable. Having more flexibility can lead to increased job satisfaction and overall happiness, which can positively impact the company culture.

2. Increased Productivity

Studies have shown that remote workers are often more productive than their office-based counterparts. This is due to several factors such as fewer distractions, no commute time, and the ability to customize their work environment. With increased productivity, employees can accomplish more in less time, leading to higher job satisfaction and a positive work culture.

3. Better Collaboration

Remote work has made it easier for employees to collaborate with colleagues from different locations and time zones. With video conferencing and collaboration tools, remote workers can communicate and work together effectively. This can lead to better teamwork, improved problem-solving, and a more cohesive work culture.

4. Cost Savings

Remote work can also lead to cost savings for both the employees and the company. Without the need for office space, utilities, and other expenses, companies can save money. Employees can also save on transportation costs, clothing, and food expenses. This can lead to improved financial well-being, which can positively impact the overall company culture.

5. Reduced Stress

The flexibility that comes with remote work can also reduce stress levels for employees. Without the need to commute to an office, deal with office politics, or deal with the pressures of being physically present, employees can focus on their work and personal lives. This can lead to reduced stress levels, which can lead to a positive work culture.

6. Increased Diversity and Inclusion

Remote work can also lead to increased diversity and inclusion in the workplace. With the ability to work from anywhere, companies can recruit and retain employees from different locations, cultures, and backgrounds. This can lead to a more diverse workforce and a culture that values diversity and inclusion.

7. Improved Health and Wellness

Remote work can also have a positive impact on the health and wellness of employees. With more control over their work environment and schedule, employees can make healthier choices such as taking breaks to exercise, preparing healthy meals, and taking care of their mental health. This can lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce, which can positively impact the company culture.

My conclusion

From improved work-life balance to increased productivity, remote work can benefit both employees and the company. By embracing remote work, companies can create a culture that values flexibility, collaboration, diversity, and inclusion, leading to a more engaged and motivated workforce.

HOWEVER….!

After three years of remote work, I hear many leaders complain about a lack of company culture and feeling of togetherness. It is a very narrow line that executives must walk today between the complete freedom of employees to be wherever they want and work whenever they want, and the need for exchange and teamwork, building trust, and achieving agreed-upon goals.

Companies often reach their limits in this area. The rapid shift from pure on-site work to remote work only leads many companies to a cultural crisis. This is precisely where I, as a New Work facilitator, come in. I accompany you and your team through the change process. Together, we develop solutions tailored to your company for productive and trustworthy collaboration.