The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant global impact on workplaces as the workforce moves from being working in physical spaces to working remotely. This new type of work is a challenge that workers and companies must confront and overcome by using online resources and platforms to bridge the gap. The results of this new way of working have been mixed. While for many, working from home has presented challenges, significant benefits have also been realised. Consequently, an increasing number of companies consider remote work as a valid option for benefits such as:
● A better work-life balance
● Less stress at work
● Higher productivity
● Flexibility
● Cost savings
Remote working teams has become the norm around the world with increasing number of covid lockdowns. More companies have also embraced geographic diversity with some companies having staff and teams from all corners of the globe. Due to the diversity presented by geography, these groups of people are spread across different countries and time zones. While there may be challenges to managing these types of teams, there are many benefits.
As the world of work changes, so too do the challenges that come with it. The opportunity to work remotely can be liberating—but it does not come without its fair share of unique challenges. Some of the most common adjustments you may face as you make this shift include:
● Communication challenges. Working remotely means different time zones and schedules, which can make it difficult to stay connected with teammates and keep productivity in your project management system (PMS).
● Time zone challenges. Time zones are not always easy for everyone to adjust to; for example, if someone is working from Asia or Australia while others are based in Europe or the US, there may be confusion over what times certain activities occur.
● Technology challenges. When team members are not working in a single location together, technology must play a critical role in helping teammates stay connected through video calls or other tools. This is important for team members to feel like they are part of a “virtual” office space rather than just individuals scattered across different time zones around the world.
Remote work is here to stay for the near future. Many companies and workers consider remote working as a viable alternative. This work arrangement will continue to be the norm and its benefit will continue to be realised. However, due to some challenges it presents, alterations to work need to be made depending on the role, tasks to complete, the type of communication needed and the difference in time zones for international teams. It is vital that employees and employers maintain open and honest communication to share issues that could affect effectiveness and work to address these issues head on.