Strategy is Key to Telecommuting and Remote Work Programs Success
Too many companies are thrust into telecommuting and remote work arrangements before they even have the chance to determine why they are allowing such work arrangements! This can be highly destructive and problematic for the organization because a company’s strategy dictates all aspects of the Telecommuting arrangement.
For instance; if a company is using Telecommuting as a means to become more environmentally friendly, then those policies, procedures, selection criteria, and training will look completely different than a company who engages in Telecommuting practices because they have run out of room at their office and do not want to invest in more real estate.
This has been the root cause for many companies’ Telecommuting programs failing. No strategy leaves the responsibility of administering the Telecommuting policy up to individual managers and employees. This is a HUGE LEGAL LIABILITY for companies! I often ask companies we speak with, “What would happen if all your managers had a different idea of what your sexual harassment policy was?” This is always an eye opener for companies and leads us to the strategy question.
Ok, now let’s talk about setting your strategy. First, are you embarking on a Telecommuting work arrangement for Internal or External reasons? Let’s explore:
Internal Drivers/Factors:
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Attract and Retain Top Talent
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Reduce Overhead Expenses
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Increase Employee Productivity
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Enhance Employee Morale
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Become an Employer of Choice
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Improve Employee Work/Life Balance
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Reduce Absenteeism
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Strengthen Overall Competitiveness
External Factors
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Green Initiatives
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Pandemic planning
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Terrorist Strike
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Inclement Weather
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Road-way Construction
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Rising Gas Prices
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Power Outages
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Flood
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Earthquake
Determining your strategy starts with looking at the above reasons. From there, look at your timeline for implementation. Are you 30, 90, or 364 days out from implementation. Next consider what departments, such as Human Resources, IT, and learning and development, with whom you are going to need to seek assistance.
