If there’s one thing we can all take away from the 2020s it’s that the we work is going to be very different. Remote work has become the new norm for more people around the world than ever. 

While some have hailed this shift as a positive development - a chance for workers to finally get a true work/life balance, others believe it presents challenges and limits productivity. 

Let’s explore the impact of home working on the modern workforce and consider ways to effectively manage remote teams, foster collaboration and maintain productivity.

Benefits and challenges of remote work

Working from home offers a range of benefits, including increased flexibility, improved work-life balance and reduced commuting time and expenses. 

However, it also poses some challenges, such as feelings of isolation, communication difficulties and getting distracted by things that come up at home. 

It's important for both employees and managers to be aware of these challenges and take steps to maximize productivity while working remotely. 

Strategies for effectively managing remote teams

One of the keys here is to set clear expectations and goals from the outset. This includes establishing regular communication channels, providing support and resources to remote employees and promoting a positive company culture. 

Additionally, the use of technology can help to facilitate remote collaboration and productivity. Think about what scheduling tool and video conferencing software could really help your team succeed.

Maintaining productivity and work/life balance

This can be a challenge when working remotely, but there are several strategies that can help. 

Set yourself a clear schedule, create a dedicated workspace and take breaks throughout the day. This can all contribute to increased productivity. 

Working from home sometimes means you feel the need to work longer to prove you’re working. It's also important to maintain a work/life balance and avoid overworking. This can lead to burnout. Be sure to set boundaries, take time for self-care and prioritize non-work activities.

Transitioning to remote work

For those who are new to working from home, it can be difficult to adjust to the change. 

You need to make sure you establish a routine, set up a comfortable workspace and stay connected with colleagues. Think about scheduling regular check-ins with your team if it’s just for a chat. 

Additionally, it's important to manage expectations and be proactive in seeking feedback and support as needed.

Remote work is here to stay, and it's important for both employees and employers to embrace this shift and work together to overcome its challenges. 

As Dell Computers founder Michael Dell once said, "Technology now allows people to connect anytime, anywhere, to anyone in the world, from almost any device. This is dramatically changing the way people work, facilitating 24/7 collaboration with colleagues who are dispersed across time zones, countries and continents." 

Let's embrace this remote work revolution and make the most of its many benefits.