I have taken a more active interest in the subject of Remote Work lately. After being a remote worker for over 12 years now, I have seen many of the advantages of this arrangement, both for the worker and for the organization employing the worker. I have also overcome some of the disadvantages that are being tossed about lately. There is one in particular that I have and interest in addressing with organizations that use this excuse.
I have been told that it is more difficult to manage a remote worker than it is to manage someone in "the office". I think this is a weak excuse given that most organizations are already managing remote workers, even though they do not realize it.
If you are a manager and have employees scattered about several different places in your building, or in other buildings, you are already managing remote workers! If you have ever emailed, texted, IM'd or, heaven forbid, called one of your staff, you are already managing remote workers!
I can go on about this one "objection" to remote work but it would take too long and not add anything to my point. That said, it is time organizations got over the objections and started to use remote workers where it makes sense. Go out and get the best talent you can find, regardless of where they are at the moment. If they are comfortable with the arrangement, have them work remote and see how they like it. I can guarantee that you will get more than your money's worth out of them and they will be more loyal to you and your organization.
Let me know if you need help with this one...........
