BEWARE OF THE PITFALLS
www.icenimagazine.co.uk
Issue 86 2020
Beware Of The Pitfalls Of Working From Home Working from home can seem like a perfect scenario for both employers, employees and sole traders.
first step on the road to recovery, with many important support services able to be engaged virtually, as and when required.
After all, it minimises overheads, reduces the need for office premises and allows for greater flexibility, with opportunities to work when busy and do other things when not.
l Some logistical considerations need to be investigated, at least at the outset. Is creating a designated workstation viable? Trying to work on the kitchen table or in an area that's busy, noisy or has several demands made on its usage does not contribute to a productive work environment. Neither is sharing kit with children and their homework requirements. Assess the availability of space, software requirements, internet capacity, data security and any additional training requirements. Will some staff need PPE or other safety equipment?
But there are a few potential pitfalls it's important to be aware of when working from home. l In this post-COVID-19 world, some staff may be apprehensive at the prospect of returning to work, are concerned at using public transport or may not have enough actual work to sustain them in a return to full-time employment. Home working can accommodate them being available as needed, be able to work their hours to suit and then gradually regain their confidence after possibly weeks away. l Sole-traders may have had to cut back on their overheads, let go of support staff and may be trying to recover some of the ground lost during lockdown. They may have to effectively start all over again, building their businesses from scratch. Working from home is the
l Meetings, networking and team building are often key components in a business's success. Good relationships oil the wheels of commerce. Those with a reputation for being fair and treating their staff and customers well invariably do better. Check to see where there's a convenient hot-desking space, hotel or venue that would be suitable for necessary briefings and meetings. Online offers important business connectivity, but in-person is crucial too.
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