How to negotiate working from home

As technologies continue to evolve and business owners think more laterally about the definition of ‘work’, more and more employees are being given greater flexibility in where and when that work occurs.

The barriers that have previously limited employees from working from home are disappearing, and the old standard of staff spending 40 hours a week at the office is all but over. It’s being replaced by an increase in the number of New Zealand organisations embracing the benefits of work from home arrangements.

So, what are the benefits of working from home or working remotely?

• Increased job satisfaction. Job satisfaction is a powerful tool. It helps contribute to productivity, keeps people motivated and engaged, increases staff retention, and generally creates a happier and more effective team.
  
  More and more flexible working arrangements such as the opportunity to work from home are being viewed as a major perk, and those who do work from home are reportedly more satisfied with their jobs. This can significantly contribute to higher staff retention rates, meaning you’re more likely to enjoy your job – and stay longer too!

• Improved work-life balance. Today’s workforce is far more interested in creating a better balance between work and leisure than any generation before them. Research shows work-life balance to be one of the top three drivers attracting candidates to an organisation, and that an overwhelming 92% of candidates feel work-life balance would affect their decision to change jobs or careers.
   
• Increased productivity. One of the greatest misconceptions about working from home is that it offers remote employees a chance to slack off. In fact, employees who telecommute may increase their productivity, given that they’re able to schedule their work towards the times of day they feel most effective – ensuring early birds and night owls alike are able to maximise their productivity. In addition, remote employees aren’t subject to the same interruptions they would be within an office environment.

How to score a work from home gig

Around 59% of employees consider flexible working arrangements such as the opportunity to work from home to be a major perk, and those who do are reportedly more satisfied with their jobs. This can significantly contribute to higher staff retention rates, meaning you’re more likely to enjoy your job – and stay longer too!