Remote working can boost productivity levels by providing employees with a much-needed change of scenery, according to a survey commissioned by Regus. According to the results, 46 per cent of Canadians suffering from being confined for long periods of time found relief by varying their work environment.
The survey, which canvassed over 1,500 business people in Canada, found that in addition to improving productivity, working remotely also helps 53 per cent of employees concentrate. This is because leaving the usual business environment renews focus and allows workers to complete necessary tasks without interruptions from colleagues and ringing phones.
Flexible working also improves the commute to work for 53 per cent of respondents and allows 43 per cent of those surveyed to spend more time with loved ones at the end of the day.
Other key findings of the report include 53 per cent of respondents prefer flexible working because it allows them to be closer to clients or prospects for meetings. The survey found that 32 per cent of Canadian managers and directors intend to allow their teams between one and two days to work remotely next year, while 13 per cent of managers would allow workers to work remotely for the entire week.
“in the past, many employers have been hesitant about allowing employees to work remotely, so it’s surprising to see how many supervisors are embracing the positive impact that remote working can have on their workforce,” said Wayne Berger, executive vice president at Regus Canada, in a press release. “Offering employees the possibility of mobile working, even for a couple of days a week, increases their productivity levels as well as general well-being.”
“Further motivation for directors is that remote working provides companies with a wider reach,” continued Berger. “As a business grows, proximity to clients and prospects is indispensable but also costly. Flexible working allows companies to have a presence in different locations, whether to meet potential customers or source suppliers, with little extra expense.”
