What are the critical challenges in remote working?
New sources of cyber-risk
Potential security gaps have been multiplied by the number of employees working from the home. Remote workers can be an unforeseen and uncontrolled vulnerability, especially when a very high percentage of the workplace involved.
Confidentiality
Something as simple as locking a computer when taking a break will prevent strategic plans, personal databases or profit and loss statements being seen by third parties living under the same roof. Without the correct training and policies in place, employees breaching important company and stakeholder confidentiality agreements is a real concern.
Home discipline and routines
Human resources departments should make an effort to care for the health of employees, and this includes recommendations on how to disconnect from work. There is already a lot of research linking remote working to depression, loneliness and anxiety.
New platforms, new communication
In some cases, we’re blind to each other’s stress and we can be annoying. With so many messages it can be easy for things to be missed or misunderstood. Contextualising and getting to the point are two ingredients of effective communication via chat or email.
Project and delivery management
There are many task management platforms, as well as methods to organise tasks in order to meet deadlines. In any case, organising a production and delivery schedule, as well as encouraging proper time management, is the best way to maintain efficiency levels.
Excesses and defects
There are remote workers who won’t leave their seats until the job is done. There are others for whom the bark of a neighbour’s dog or a roommate’s noise will distract them. There are solutions for everyone.
