Pros and Cons of Working at Home

Lucy Lyle, the Perch founder, observes. “For some, working from home is an opportunity to boost productivity. For others, productivity can be hindered by the distractions that can arise.”

Since Covid-19 remote work has become one of the most common ways to continue running businesses. Many more individuals from all sectors have turned to work out of the comfort of their home offices. This does not come without both advantages and disadvantages.

Flexibility remains the top advantage with employees being able to care for either children or elderly relatives whilst holding down their remote positions. There are many reasons why the home office works so well, having this flexibility to meet deadlines while working around home responsibilities is one such reason.

Lucy Lyle has shown that the work-home balance is restored. Employees find that the home can have fewer distractions than the office if managed correctly and efficiently. Another advantage is a time and money-saving one. If there is no commute or traditional 9 – 5 schedule you can work at any time that suits your lifestyle.

One of the disadvantages that some remote employees experience is the isolation that comes from working alone. Having little or no social interaction with colleagues can be a disadvantage as there is no collaboration and teamwork. Lucy Lyle suggests this can be combated by arranging after-hour meetings, and events to keep everyone connected, or scheduling Zoom meetings once or twice a week.

A disadvantage can be finding the self-discipline to work effectively with no supervision or traditional office parameters. Some employees may find this difficult and struggle with focus and motivation.