The global COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a new era of remote work.
The Pew Research Center reports that over 71% of people had transitioned to working from home at the height of the pandemic.
As of 2023, that number is still relatively high, with 59% of workers remaining at home though social distancing restrictions have long been relaxed.
As remote work becomes increasingly common, many managers are considering transitioning to the new model.
If you are among them, you might wonder about the advantages and challenges of managing a remote team.
This guide contains everything you need about remote teams—their advantages, disadvantages, and how to meet both.
How Remote Work is Changing the Job Market
Remote work is managing teams outside of a traditional office setting. Most remote workers may work from anywhere they like—whether at home or in rented office spaces.
The term gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when many people were forced to stay home to observe social distancing and quarantine guidelines.
Since then, remote work has become popular, commanding nearly 60% of the job market.
Although remote work has both advantages and disadvantages—many of which merit consideration, it is undeniable that the movement has changed workers’ expectations.
Most people prefer to work from home, so the trend seems far from over.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Remote Teams
Remote work has many advantages—and accompanying challenges.
For example, while remote teams can be more productive, less oversight may pose specific issues.
Consider the following advantages and challenges of remote teams to learn more about how this movement is changing how we work.
Advantages of Remote Teams
There are many advantages of working with remote teams, from a more straightforward hiring process to a better work-life balance. Consider the following before signing on.
An Easier Hiring Process
There are several reasons hiring remote teams is easier. First, the data indicates that most people prefer to work remotely, so you will likely have an easier time finding willing workers for your business.
Additionally, working remotely allows you to hire people from all over the world—not just those in your vicinity.
A More Diverse and Equitable Workforce
Remote work leads to a more diverse workforce.
Because you can hire people from all over the world, you can expect a more culturally and socially unique population.
Besides, remote work offers an unprecedented opportunity to those traditionally marginalized by standard working methods. You can hire new mothers, people with disabilities, and others who deserve a chance to do their best.
Higher Productivity
Research suggests that those who work from home are, on average, 7% more productive than those who work in offices.
For this reason, hiring a remote team can help you boost your productivity—without the additional costs of doing so.
Lower Operational Costs
When you hire remote workers, you will not need to spend all that extra money on office space, utilities, and resources for in-person workers.
This can amount to a pretty penny, allowing you to curtail your budget and redirect your funds toward more important ventures—like scaling your business.
Avoiding expected startup costs can be a massive boon to your business.
Improved Activity Monitoring Technology
Although many people assume that remote workers are more difficult to monitor, they are actually easier to keep track of than in-person workforces.
That is because innumerable technologies and software systems are available to those who work with remote teams. A high-quality SaaS service can help you find the right tools for communication and monitoring across your groups.
Less Conflict Amongst Teams
Remote work entails fewer unexpected interactions among workers. Gone are the days of stolen food and water cooler gossip.
Remote work introduces more boundaries between office workers, contributing to an all-around healthier work environment.
Lesser Carbon Footprint
When you manage teams remotely, you will not have to rent out an office space and spend money and resources on utilities.
Lowering your carbon footprint is not just great for the environment but also for your business. You can build brand awareness around your environmental efforts, boosting your revenue over the long term.
Easy Collaboration
Collaboration has always been challenging with the many tools available to remote teams. From communication software to messaging apps, the opportunities for collaboration are endless.
Better Work-Life Balance
Working from home allows your employees to have a better work-life balance, leading to improved outcomes for your business.
When your employees are remote, they can spend time on essential appointments and tending to self-care, allowing them to show up to work refreshed.
Disadvantages of Remote Teams
There are several disadvantages associated with remote work. Consider the following before making your decision.
Low Motivation
Regarding remote work, the main thing people worry about is motivation. Many factors can contribute to low motivation and morale, from the many distractions at home to the general lack of oversight.
Thankfully, sophisticated software tools make it possible to monitor activity and keep your employees connected.
Lack of Connection
When you forego an office space, you sacrifice meaningful opportunities for bonding.
One way to address this problem is by proposing after-hours meetups and events for employees to participate in. You do not have to lose connective experiences—only change them.
Technology Troubleshooting
When your workers are at home, you cannot address technological difficulties or work-related problems as quickly.
However, modern messaging apps make communication possible, and software enables things like screen sharing and remote repairs.
Additional Costs
Although you will save money on traditional expenditures, you might have to invest in new technology and software for your employees to stay connected.
However, you will almost certainly save money in the long run.
Time Zone Discrepancies
If you work with employees in many states or countries, you might experience time zone differences, making it hard to plan meetings and events.
However, most managers find ways to work around this problem, and many employees are more willing to be flexible when given ample time.
Wrapping Up: So, Should You Go Remote?
Working remotely has always been challenging.
With the wealth of technologies and sophisticated software tools, you can make it work, boosting your productivity and enhancing the worker experience.
Consider the benefits and drawbacks of managing remote teams before deciding.
Good insights on having remote teams – thanks for sharing!