How Remote Employment Is Changing America's Work Ethic

Undeniably, the remote work landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, bringing many benefits. While it would take time to pinpoint exactly how many Americans work remotely full-time, part-time, or on a hybrid schedule, the numbers have tripled in recent years and remain in the tens of millions, according to the United States Census Bureau. As someone who's spent most of her career in an office, I've slowly come around to seeing the remote work revolution as a positive force, challenging misconceptions and opening up new possibilities for employees and employers alike.

Myth 1: Remote Workers Are Less Productive

Remote work allows for a more flexible work schedule and eliminates the distractions of a traditional office environment, increasing productivity for many people. Many jokes on social networking apps make it seem like remote workers are significantly less productive than their in-office counterparts. However, many employees thrive when working from home, partially due to factors ranging from avoiding office gossip to being able to tackle tasks during their personal prime work hours when they function best.

Myth 2: Remote Workers Are Less Creative

The 'fact' that remote workers are less creative is old (and false) news. In fact, the flexibility of remote work often enhances creativity. Whether it's working in a parking lot while waiting for their child to get out of school or soaking up the morning sun while working from their kitchen, remote workers have the freedom to choose environments that inspire them. This flexibility can increase creativity and productivity, challenging the myth that remote work stifles innovation.

Myth 3: Remote Workers Can Lose Their Skills

Nowadays, there are more ways to enhance skills, including online courses, attending webinars, and listening to podcasts. Remote workers who no longer have to worry about commuting can use the time they would have spent going to work, which, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, averaged 26.8 minutes in 2021 to enhance their knowledge. The round trip adds up to nearly an hour per workday and a significant amount of time over a year. Employers can encourage employees to build their skills by offering incentives for them to do so, such as by paying for their classes, providing bonuses, or offering time off upon completion of a course. Everyone, including the company, can benefit from the arrangement.

Myth 4: Remote Workers Can Work Extra Hours if Necessary

One of employers' biggest misconceptions is that remote workers can continue working beyond their agreed-upon hours. Many factors are at play, such as what's in their contract, but employers must remember that an employee's mental health and well-being are paramount.

All workers need—and should be able to get—adequate sleep to perform optimally. With its flexibility, remote work allows employees to better manage their time and balance work with personal life. They also need time for themselves, their families and friends, and their leisure pursuits. Everyone should enjoy some uninterrupted time off and feel appreciated when they do so. Employers should not take advantage of the situation to overwork their employees, thinking they can now work day and night.

Myth 5: Remote Workers Can't Network

Remote workers may be unable to meet co-workers and colleagues over morning pastries in the breakroom, but they can still network in many ways. They can attend in-person gatherings and participate in forums, to name a few. Mentorship can also be a great way to connect established employees with newcomers and help them feel more welcome.

Misconception 6: Working in an Office Will be a Thing of the Past

So far, I've focused on the unfair misconceptions about remote employment. However, I still see the value of working together in an office—even when video calls are more practical. Many people, like me, work much better in an office setting and prefer face-to-face interactions and camaraderie to talking with others through a computer screen. They also find it easier to stick to a structured schedule.

Although remote work has significantly increased, I suspect that working in an office will be around for a while. Take my profession as a lawyer: I can (and do) complete much of my work at home or via video conferencing. However, some of my best work has been achieved via close collaboration with colleagues in ways that could never have been accomplished over a computer. The best solution for most professionals is the hybrid model many employers embrace today. However, it's beneficial for employers and employees to work together to establish best practices and guidelines for everyone involved. Hearing each other out and trusting each other are major ways of growing a business and helping everyone feel valued and encouraged to do their best, whether in the office or working remotely.