We all know remote work is a part of our business culture. Depending on your industry, you, yourself may work remotely. If not, chances are you know someone who works remotely. Many organizations have gone to fully remote or hybrid models. At Surf Office, we are a fully remote team - so we acutely understand all of the benefits as well as the challenges that come with working in a
remote or distributed team
. In this post, we are going to shine some light on the very real struggles that come with working remotely - and what you can do about them.
Werken op afstand: de realiteit van vandaag
Attitudes toward remote work are shifting. What have we learned so far about switching to remote work ?
If there is one thing we know for sure, it’s that people are embracing remote work and want even more of it. McKinsey conducted their third American Opportunity Survey , which produces research on how flexible work arrangements apply to today’s workers, and shared this data:
- 58% of people reported that they can work from home one day per week or more.
- 35% of workers say they have the ability to work from home five days per week.
- Notably, respondents work in all kinds of jobs , in every part of the country and sector of the economy, including traditionally labeled “blue collar” jobs that might be expected to demand on-site labor as well as “white collar” professions.
- When given the chance to work remotely at least part of the time, at least 87% of people take it.
- Op alle inkomensniveaus gaven jongere werknemers vaker aan dat zij de mogelijkheid hadden om thuis te werken dan oudere werknemers.
-
Job seekers highly value having autonomy over where and when they work - in some industries (such as areas of rapid technological innovation), new employees demand this arrangement.
Based on this and the other plethora of data available, one thing is clear: remote working is the reality for many people. It’s something we all need to adapt to and shape our working world around. However, that doesn’t mean the arrangement is perfect. There are certain struggles that are unique to remote work. Let’s dive into some of those specific challenges.
De uitdagingen van op afstand werken
While remote work offers numerous benefits such as flexibility and increased autonomy, it also presents a unique set of hurdles to overcome. Here, we will explore ten different challenges that individuals often face when working remotely, including increased anxiety, feelings of isolation, and more.
1. Isolatie
Een van de grootste hindernissen voor thuiswerkers is het gevoel van eenzaamheid. In tegenstelling tot een traditionele kantooromgeving missen zij de dagelijkse sociale interacties en het contact met collega’s. Dit isolement kan leiden tot gevoelens van afzondering en een negatieve invloed hebben op hen mentale welzijn.
It’s important to make a real effort to connect with other workers. You can try regular video calls, virtual team meetings, online “ happy hours ” or other gatherings. Furthermore, it’s important that organizations be proactive about getting everyone together. Things like regular team building activities at least twice a year can help colleagues stay connected and in tune. Remember that virtual events can supplement relationships but not replace them - getting together in person once in a while is key for bonding and building relationships.
People should also seek opportunities to connect with other like-minded individuals. Look for online forums or communities based on industry or professional interests, or sign up for occasional training or other development opportunities.
2. Moeilijkheden met het vinden van een goede werk-privébalans
While remote work allows for increased flexibility, it can also blur the boundaries between work and personal life. Without the physical separation of an office, it becomes challenging to establish clear boundaries, leading to longer work hours and difficulty disconnecting from work-related tasks. People who haven’t worked remotely may have the impression that remote workers do less, but that is far from the truth. In reality, studies show that 55% of employees put in more hours when working remotely than in the office.
Encourage co-workers to establish a designated workspace and set boundaries around work activity. Create a routine that includes real breaks and carve out time for personal activity that is important to you. It’s up to each individual to develop
their own work-life balance
- stick to the boundaries that you create, or no one else will.
3. Communicatie problemen
Effective communication is vital for any work environment . However, remote work often introduces communication hurdles such as varying time zones, technological issues, and misinterpretation of written messages. These challenges can hinder collaboration and lead to misunderstandings among team members.
To combat these issues, start by ensuring you’re using the right tools. There are a variety of communication tools designed to make collaborating across platforms easier. Platforms like video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management tools can support
effective and timely communication
. Clarify expectations, encourage transparency, and utilize visual aids to minimize misunderstandings. Again, forging real bonds with colleagues will help to establish relationships and limit the communication mishaps that can happen.
4. Toegenomen angstgevoelens
Working remotely can often exacerbate anxiety levels. Factors such as increased pressure to prove productivity, isolation from colleagues, and the lack of immediate feedback can contribute to heightened anxiety and stress levels for remote workers. According to an analysis by the Integrated Benefits Institute, fully remote or hybrid work arrangements are associated with a higher degree of anxiety .
One way to improve your odds for anxiety is to practice self-care techniques like exercise, mindfulness, and setting realistic goals. Companies should look for ways to support these efforts on behalf of employees. Look at a variety of
wellness programs
or perks, and plan regular outings that are just for fun. Company sponsored games, events, or
team-building meetings
can all increase
mental and physical well-being
.
5. Zelfdiscipline en motivatie
Zonder de structuur van een traditioneel kantoor zijn thuiswerkers afhankelijk van hun eigen zelfdiscipline en motivatie om productief te blijven. Toch kan het lastig zijn om geconcentreerd en gemotiveerd te blijven wanneer je thuis of op andere externe locaties wordt omringd door allerlei afleidingen.
To
have more intrinsic motivation
, it’s key to establish a daily routine, set specific goals, and use productivity tools to stay focused. As mentioned, create a designated workspace that is free from distractions and separate from your personal working space. Consider setting rewards for achieving milestones, and as a manager, you should look for small ways to reward great performance. You might be surprised at how many innovative ways there are to reward employees!
6. Beperkte doorgroeimogelijkheden
Thuiswerkers lopen soms het risico op minder doorgroeimogelijkheden dan collega’s die op kantoor werken. Dit komt vooral doordat thuiswerken vaak minder zichtbaarheid en minder spontane netwerkgelegenheden met zich meebrengt. In organisaties die hybride werken – waarbij een deel van het team op kantoor aanwezig is – krijgen medewerkers die fysiek dichter bij leidinggevenden staan vaak meer aandacht en kansen. Hierdoor kan de professionele groei van thuiswerkers onbedoeld achterblijven.
Ook op dit vlak kunnen medewerkers zelf stappen zetten, maar de echte verantwoordelijkheid ligt bij de werkgever. Het is aan leiders om ervoor te zorgen dat alle medewerkers, ongeacht hun werkplek, zichtbaar zijn en gelijke mogelijkheden tot kansen hebben. Breng je team daarom regelmatig fysiek samen, minstens een paar keer per jaar, om samenwerking en verbinding te versterken. Als manager is het cruciaal om actief relaties op te bouwen met al je teamleden, taken evenwichtig te verdelen en ervoor te zorgen dat iedereen de ruimte krijgt om zich te laten zien. Stel diverse teams samen waarin zowel kantoor- als thuiswerkers hun sterke punten kunnen inzetten. Zo krijgt iedereen de kans om hun steentje bij te dragen!
The individual action we mentioned is equally important. Seek out virtual networking opportunities, join professional groups, and participate in industry communities or panels. Attend webinars or other conferences related to your role, and ask about professional development that can help you to be better at your job. Make it a point to reach out to your boss regularly and update them on your work, and if they’re open to it, send a status report at the end of each week clarifying what your biggest accomplishments were and where you stand with other important projects.
7. Technologische uitdagingen
Technologie is onmisbaar bij werken op afstand, maar die afhankelijkheid brengt ook de nodige struikelblokken met zich mee. Denk aan haperende internetverbindingen, software die niet meewerkt of plotselinge storingen in je apparatuur, allemaal zaken die de productiviteit flink kunnen onderbreken en voor frustratie zorgen bij thuiswerkers.
Reliable technology is key. Some of the tech you use is likely provided by your company, but it’s on you to make sure you have a reliable internet connection and the other hardware to work properly. Make sure you have a backup plan for any failures. For example, if your power goes out and your internet goes down, is there a place nearby where you can work? If not, who can help with immediate needs? It’s always a good idea to have a hotspot and access to other hardware like printers. Stay updated on the latest technology and participate in training where you can learn to troubleshoot technical issues before they become bigger problems.
8. Time management
Thuiswerken biedt veel vrijheid, maar vraagt ook om uitstekend time management. Zonder de vaste structuur van een kantoor ben je zelf verantwoordelijk voor het aanbrengen van ritme in je dag. Dat betekent slimme routines opbouwen, je taken bewust prioriteren en overzicht houden, zodat je deadlines haalt en je productiviteit op peil blijft.
Consider using proven time management techniques like the
Eisenhower Matrix
, or stepping up your to-do list with an app. You should be able to create accurate to do lists, prioritize tasks, and set and communicate realistic deadlines. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques and tools to help you maintain focus. Eventually you’ll find what works for you, but remember: consistency is key.
9. Samenwerkingsproblemen
Samenwerken wordt een stuk complexer als teamleden verspreid over verschillende locaties werken. Voor thuiswerkers kan het lastig zijn om taken goed op elkaar af te stemmen, informatie soepel te delen en een hechte teamdynamiek te behouden. Dat gebrek aan verbondenheid kan uiteindelijk zijn weerslag hebben op de kwaliteit van gezamenlijke projecten
Collaboration tools like various project management software can really help with this. Look for various PM platforms, use shared documents, and video conference regularly to facilitate teamwork and improve information sharing. Establish clear communication channels and make sure everyone understands the need for collaboration. It will be easier if everyone is on board with a shared goal. This is another reason why in-person events are key: when you have a natural relationship with someone, it becomes easier to take the time to collaborate, even if it involves an extra step or two. It will be much easier to
overcome teamwork challenges
when you already have a bond with people.
10. Gebrek aan mogelijkheden voor professionele ontwikkeling
Remote workers may find it more challenging to access professional development opportunities compared to their office-based counterparts. Remote employees may miss out on in-person training sessions, workshops, or networking events that could enhance their skills and knowledge.
That being said, there is no shortage of professional development opportunities if you look for them. Various online training programs, workshops, webinars, and conferences related to your field are good options. Consider requesting more opportunities for professional development directly from your employer. Ask your manager what things you should focus on and how you can find more engagement in those areas. Some companies cover the cost and time of training or courses: ask around about various certifications or other classes that could improve the skills related to your job.
Team retreats: jouw taak als leider
De meeste van deze obstakels vragen om een gezamenlijke aanpak van zowel de medewerker als de organisatie. Er zijn volop mogelijkheden om proactief en bewust te handelen en zo de valkuilen van thuiswerken te vermijden. Toch rust er als leidinggevende ook een belangrijke verantwoordelijkheid op jouw schouders.
It’s essential to facilitate team-building and cooperation in whatever ways you can when managing a virtual team . Virtual team-building activities have become more popular and they are a great start. Who doesn’t love an online happy hour? But virtual icebreakers and webinar training can only take you so far.
In-person events like team retreats are key for maintaining work culture with a remote team - and it’s your job to facilitate these occurrences whenever possible. You don’t have to do it alone: Surf Office can help. We can plan proven, cost-effective company retreats that save your team time and let you focus on the fun.
