The coronavirus pandemic has without doubt changed the way we live.
It’s also changed the way a lot of us work, as it becomes more apparent that a considerable number of people working in offices can do their jobs just as efficiently, if not better, from home.
And although the next few months will likely see a relaxation in social distancing restrictions as people return to work and the economy opens up again, it is also likely that certain sectors will see a considerable increase in staff working remotely.
A recent survey showed that 61 percent of Irish workers currently working from home expect that this trend will continue once the pandemic is over.
The study, carried out for eir Business and TechCentral, showed that 74 percent of people report higher levels of productivity while working from home, with 64 percent finding it the same – or easier – to contact the people they regularly do business with.
But it’s not just the actual work that people are finding easier with remote working, but what comes after work too.
82 percent of respondents agreed that working from home has the ability to improve work life balance, giving people more time for hobbies, exercise, and even just relaxation.
Martin Wells, MD of eir Business, noted that before the pandemic, the majority of Irish workers carried out most of their daily tasks in an office.
Now, he said, this is likely to change.
“Prior to the global spread of the coronavirus, working from home was not the norm in Ireland,” he said.
“Once we emerge from this current situation, we can expect to see a changed work environment where many businesses adopt a hybrid model of home and office working.
“The challenge will be to blend the benefits of home working with the in-person contact that is still so important to many businesses.”
Despite this, many people are still struggling with the daily distractions caused by working from home, with 66 percent admitting that they have oftentimes struggled to maintain focus.
There also exists the need for social interactions in the workplace and so-called “watercooler chats” to break up the day and provide a respite from the stresses of work.
Regardless, it’s looking fairly likely that office workers are going to see a shift in how they operate post-pandemic.
