As transitioning to remote work gains momentum among numerous companies, confident prominent CEOs oppose this shift. Naresh Khatri, who is an Associate Professor of Health Management and Informatics at the University of Missouri’s School of Medicine, has emphasised that the success of adopting remote work largely hinges on an organisation’s capacity to adapt to the unique needs of its employees and the technological resources at its disposal.
Khatri, a seasoned expert with over 60 published research articles and book chapters focusing on organisational structure and management within healthcare settings, posits that offering the option of remote work can act as a compelling incentive for recruitment. This strategy is feasible for organisations equipped with robust Human Resources (HR) and Information Technology (IT) departments, which are crucial for maintaining a productive workforce, irrespective of the employees’ location. Their role in supporting remote work is not just beneficial but essential.
In a recent guest editorial for Personnel Review, Khatri and his colleagues highlight that businesses adopting remote work access a broader talent pool, potentially enhancing their competitiveness. His analysis of various studies revealed that companies with efficient HR and IT support systems tend to thrive when offering flexible working arrangements, including remote work. The quality and quantity of work produced by home-based employees were comparable to those of their in-office counterparts, challenging the notion that remote work compromises collaboration or productivity.
Khatri also notes past research indicating no significant performance disparity between remote and on-site workers, even in tasks requiring team collaboration. This finding dispels concerns over the potential decline in collaborative efficiency among remote workers.
According to Khatri, investment in HR and IT infrastructure is crucial for addressing challenges such as motivation and technical issues faced by home-based employees. Tailored motivational strategies developed by HR professionals can mitigate burnout and enhance productivity, benefiting employees and the organisation. Continuous innovation in HR practices aimed at inspiring employees has fostered positive attitudes and potentially prevented burnout, leading to better-individualised strategies for employee efficiency.
Khatri advocates for recognising employees’ diverse preferences and efficiencies, whether they work better from home or in an office environment. He emphasises that companies resistant to the remote work model risk missing out on opportunities to maintain and enhance their profitability, expand their workforce, and improve overall organisational health. The evolving landscape of the workforce and industries, according to Khatri, calls for a reevaluation of remote work policies to leverage the benefits they offer to both employees and employers, paving the way for growth and expansion.
More information: Naresh Khatri et al, Guest editorial: Work from anywhere: implications for employees and organizations, Personnel Review. DOI: 10.1108/PR-11-2022-913
Journal information: Personnel Review Provided by University of Missouri – Columbia