Remote working trends have significantly evolved since the start of the year. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused working from home to become the new normal. Companies have been forced to adapt to new trends to remain compliant and efficient. By understanding these trends, companies can work with remote teams and be as productive as possible. A digital workforce is emerging as more and more companies are shifting most of its operations to online functions. This shift to remote work could be permanent as many companies now want to continue working remotely post-pandemic.
Now that companies have been forced to use a remote business model practically overnight, the realities of the system have become clear. Working from home brings many benefits and also many challenges. Before switching to remote working structures, organizations will have to make changes to transition to a work-from-home model for their employees. It is smart for organizations to ensure that staff can meet every so often. As of late, many businesses have had a trial run transitioning to remote work.
IT and Security
The benefits of remote work can only be made possible with strict security measures in place. There is an increased risk of getting computer viruses or being hacked without proper precautions.
A virus attack could potentially lead to a data breach or client information being hacked, significantly impacting revenue and brand reputation. IT must have systems in place to protect in-house computers and servers and ensure that remote workers have protection on their home laptops.
Security should be boosted for every business server – especially when accessed from multiple locations. It is also important that passwords are changed regularly and antivirus software is updated. Cybersecurity must be a priority to maintain efficient remote working protocols, especially as more remote workers are brought on board.
More Remote Communication
Companies are evolving how they communicate with their employees. Emails were once the main communication method, but now they are more likely to slow down workflow as it cannot keep up with the demand for the instant interaction needed by businesses.
Companies are forced to adapt to new ways of engagement with both internal staff and external parties. Video calls have quickly become the most popular method to stay in touch for internal staff communication and keep lines open with external parties.
Increased Transparency
Transparency among business interactions is sought after more now than ever. With remote work, companies must clearly communicate their expectations of remote workers by:
- Thorough onboarding sessions
- Regular briefings
- Designing instruction manuals
- Fostering a sense of community within and outside of the office space
More companies realize that remote teams should feel comfortable enough to ask questions and get clarifications. Staff should now be encouraged to voice their opinions about whether a particular method or software is working or not and share updates on the projects they are working on. Roadblocks and potential snags should be reported as well.
Remote Socializing
The feeling of isolation and loneliness is a common issue among remote workers. These feelings of isolation can be detrimental to mental and physical health and ultimately put a damper on workflow.
Human contact is crucial to feeling connected to a company, colleagues, and the world outside. Corporations are realizing this and making it easier for employees to stay in touch. This can be done by:
- Holding regular video meetings
- After-work socialization activities
- Using team collaboration tools like Slack with specific channels for employees to have general conversations
What we will see implemented more:
- Team chat tools
- Text Messaging Tools
- Live Chat
- Team collaboration tools
- Online Documents
- Project Management Software
Flexibility in Working
The shift in working conditions has led to businesses becoming more understanding of their employees’ unique personal situations. Employees are trying to manage work, children, parents, and households simultaneously, so not all remote workers can work the same hours as they otherwise would within the office. This will lead to more flexibility for remote workers who don’t work in-house, allowing them to take breaks during the day while still being productive. Companies will also need to secure staffing business insurance so they are properly protected during all these new changes.
About World Wide Specialty Programs
For the last 50 years, World Wide Specialty Programs has dedicated itself to providing the optimal products and solutions for the staffing industry. As the only insurance firm to be an ASA commercial liability partner, we are committed to that partnership and committed to using our knowledge of the industry to provide staffing firms with the best possible coverage. For more information about Staffing Professional Liability Insurance or any other coverage, we have available to protect your staffing business, give us a call at (877) 256-0468 to speak with one of our representatives.