The 4 Biggest Benefits of Remote Work

Tapping into a remote workforce is proving to be more convenient than ever – which is why using remote workers continues to be one of today’s most significant business trends. Research now indicates that remote work offers impressive benefits for both individuals and organizations.

Below are the 4 main benefits of remote work, as outlined by research!

1. Saving the Planet

Let’s start with the biggest picture of all: Planet Earth. Workers who don’t commute contribute to measurable environmental savings. A study by the Carbon Trust suggests that an employee who works two days a week from home can save up to 390 kilograms (859 pounds) of carbon emissions annually. That figure includes the reduced emissions from commuting as well as the energy used for heating and office space.

Full-time remote workers create environmental impact with real reach; the reach grows exponentially when you consider the impact from fewer trips to daycare, dry cleaners, and lunches. Employers can leverage their astute environmental practices as a selling point for clients and customers.

There are many advantages to online courses, one of which is that there are less airplane flights for business traveling, therefore considerably contributing to a better future.

The same can be said for attracting and keeping employees who are committed to green practices – using remote workers means you can pull from a bigger pool, so you can compete on different levels for the best talent.

2. Living Healthier Lives

Along with helping make the planet healthier, remote workers themselves are in better shape. Skipping the daily commute, for example, simply makes life better. In their book, Remote, the founders of Basecamp, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier, suggest that employees who don’t commute experience less stress, pain, obesity and depression. They’re happier, healthier and more productive.

They also call in sick less frequently – remote workers are not around other people to catch that cold that’s spreading around the office. They report a better life-health balance overall, with more exercise, sleep and time with family. Savvy employers understand the benefits of healthier lifestyles and how they impact both morale and the bottom line.