"Remote workers don't work as hard". Say what?
I just read an article on Fortune about Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman's view that remote workers don't work as hard.
Say what?
Well, okay, maybe they don't. And if they don't, they don't have to.
I don't think "soft" work equates to less productivity. In my experience, remote work has made me more efficient, getting the job done with more comfort and less stress.
Then again, I can't stand people. I mean seriously.
In a professional setting, you find yourself amidst an array of olfactory encounters, ranging from the overpowering scent of patchouli intertwined with less-than-pleasant odours to enduring a symphony of gossip and ceaseless yapping. This landscape is adorned with double standards, where different rules apply to other individuals and a legion of ass-kissers striving for favour alongside individuals of questionable intellect, colloquially known as idiots. The scenario is completed with the inclusion of less-than-amicable personalities, aptly described as both bitches and assholes. Work in the office, huh? Where one navigates the intricate dynamics of human interaction.
No thanks.
Isn't it time we redefine what 'hard work' means? In a remote setting, we're working 'smart' and fostering a better work-life balance. It's not about clocking in hours at an office desk but about the value and quality of work we deliver.
Also, in my opinion, continuing remote work post-pandemic is not just a personal preference. It's a cost-effective, environment-friendly decision that companies should seriously consider. It's about creating a better work mood and a sustainable future.
What are your thoughts? Do you believe in the power of remote work, or do you side with Schwarzman's perspective?
Article Link: https://fortune.com/2023/10/24/blackston-ceo-steve-schwarzman-remote-work-dont-work-hard-billionaire/
There are no affiliate links in this post. The post was rewritten with the help of AI. (about 50%). Tools used: GPT and Grammarly. Sue me! lol
Recent Comments
43
Hi Andy
To me, it's not so much where the work gets done but the timing and quality of the result. 😎
Frank 🎸
When Covid first hit and everyone started working from home, it was new and everyone worked hard. Sadly now, the productivity rate has declined to about 70% of what it originally was. For some companies that still works; for others that's not enough to sustain their businesses.
The biggest key is hiring right. You've got to find someone willing to put in the time and effort to get the job done, someone who is self-motivated to make things happen. Some folks are amazing in this way, but some others try to get by with just minimum effort.
It's a two-way thing, I guess. According to Bing:
"A study by the University of Chicago revealed compelling data on remote work productivity. The research showed that 60% of the surveyed participants experienced increased productivity while working remotely, contrasting sharply with the mere 14% who reported decreased productivity. Remarkably, remote work productivity surpassed in-office productivity by an average of over 7%.
In contrast, a survey carried out by YouGov presented a different perspective. According to their findings, only 30% of employees felt more productive when working from home, compared to 45% who felt more effective in an office environment. Additionally, 24% of respondents claimed equal productivity levels, whether working in an office or remotely."
Sources:
University of Chicago research paper
Ibid
YouGov survey
forbes.com
chicagobooth.edu
smallbiztrends.com
Definitely a two-way thing. I pay more attention to what the employers say, as they can see whether the productivity remains level, increases or drops off. They are the ones who sign the paychecks, so their opinion matters most.
Hi there, Andy,
Thanks for sharing this super entertaining, well-articulated post related to remote workers. As far as I'm concerned, remote work is A OK in my book. It gives flexibility and it's convenient with hybrid options where you can choose to work partially in the office and partially remotely. This is the best of both worlds.
Rachele
Yes, that is also on the table with the big corporations and politicians. Thank you for your comment, Rachele.
Very interesting that you used AI. The amount you used did not detract but allowed you to quickly get your point across. It may take you less time on this article but it doesn't mean you are spending less time on your job or aren't producing more. What's wrong with that?
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Hey Andy! I couldn't agree with you more. Before 'work from home' I'd spend hours getting showered up, putting on a nice suit and then...then...the fight through traffic to get to the office, find parking and, yes, the chit-chat once you get there! What a colossal waste of time even before you roll up your sleeves and get to work!
Here at home, my fridge is just steps away and, quite honestly, I usually get up around 5:30, take my vitamins with a glass of water then straight to my desk. I'm accomplishing more now than I ever have...way more! I can take a 15 minute break if I want to and take my dogs for a little walk and than I get right back to it. For lunch, heat up some leftovers real quick and then, again, right back at it! No superficiality or hypocrisy to contend with anymore! I wouldn't trade this for the world!