The outbreak of the pandemic in 2020 popularized working remotely. Unlike before where remote working is often the decision of the person involved. Now, companies have seen that giving out their jobs to remote workers does not only help to increase their productivity but also helps to save the cost of creating a physical office and fast-track the company’s overall performance. However, as beautiful as remote working is, it is not without its disadvantages. This article examines the pros and cons of remote working.
Pros of Working Remotely
Higher productivity
One of the benefits of working remotely is that you have more time to be productive. This is because, unlike an office where you are easily distracted with gist from colleagues, you have more control of your time and how you want to spend it. Also, as a remote worker, you can choose the best time when you are more productive to do your work. You are not under the 5-9 working hours rule.
Better work-life balance
When you are working remotely, you have more time for yourself and your family. If your office is situated at your home, your family can always reach you anytime they want to. Not commuting to work means you save the time wasted on the road. You can easily divert this time to giving your family the best attention.
More time to build a healthy lifestyle
Working remotely also gives you the time to practice all the healthy lifestyle habits you have always wanted to try out. You have the time to cook your meal rather than eat out. You can also take a break from work and exercise if you want to. Working remotely helps you to decide how you want to spend your time.
Cons of working remotely
Communication gap
As a remote worker, since you are working practically alone, you don’t have the privilege of brainstorming ideas with others like the 9-5 worker. Also, lack of proper communication can impede on team bonding if you are working with a team
Difficult to keep being productive
Because there is no one to monitor your work, you might find it challenging to remain motivated. Keeping to a deadline might become a struggle as you find yourself constantly behind schedule. Except you are a highly productive person who is completely dedicated to the job whether or not you have people around, meeting up your daily target can be a struggle
Distraction
Distraction is not only applicable to 9-5 job workers, as a remote worker, you can also get easily distracted if your office is located within your family’s reach. If you are a mother, you find out that your child is constantly needing your attention because you are available. Working remotely also has its own share of distractions.
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