It may come as no surprise that business owners, managers, and employees are split when it comes to opinions of remote work and workplace flexibility. While proponents point to studies demonstrating the benefits of remote work, other studies suggest the exact opposite. The reality for most businesses is that your own metrics and other particulars (which may vary by department, role, and/or individual employee) likely dictate your approach to workplace flexibility. For example, Advocate Aurora’s announcement of 12,000 permanently remote positions likely has no application in a manufacturing or retail setting. Whatever the answer, the stakes are high. Some employees have simply quit (or threatened to do so) if work arrangements do not align with their own desires. A recent Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce survey suggests that 67% of those surveyed anticipate increased flexibility in employee work arrangements.
Business Takeaway: Workplace flexibility will continue to be a pivotal element of employee recruitment and retention moving forward. In some cases, this also means that your business is now competing beyond local or regional markets, as more workers have identified opportunities with permanent remote work arrangements. In some instances, this may represent an opportunity more than a challenge. Contact Mark at mark@goldsteinsc.com if you have questions regarding productivity metrics and workplace flexibility.
