Working remotely was once something that happened very rarely. Whether they were lawyers, stenographers, sectaries, or even trial consultants, most people had to go into the brick-and-mortar location where they worked to meet with bosses, clients and do their jobs. 

That all changed in 2020 when COVID-19 caused lockdowns and widespread panic. Now that COVID-19 is slowly being brought under control, things are opening back up. However, many professions have decided that their employees can still work remotely and promised to support them post-pandemic in any way they can. 

On top of that, not only is the medical profession using remote technology, even lawyers are still planning to consult with clients and trial consulting professionals on a remote basis. As with anything, though, remote working comes with its own set of pros and cons. 

Pro: More Flexibility

Working remotely during COVID-19 made many employees and their employers realize how much more flexibility there is when their staff works from home. It became clear that the 9-to-5 office grind wasn’t for everyone, and many employees and even their employers tended to get more done when they worked out of their home office. Plus they were happier because they had more time to spend with their loved ones and could schedule things like doctor appointments with ease.

Con: Potential of Isolation Increases

One of the most significant disadvantages to working remotely is the potential for isolation and feeling alone (although some people think that is a pro too). Working remotely means that you spend most of your time behind a screen, even when talking to colleagues and clients. Post-COVID, that’s not going to be as bad since you can get out and meet with your colleagues, clients, and friends when you feel the walls closing in. 

Pro: Cost Savings

When it comes to saving money by working remotely, it’s a win-win for both employers and employees. The cost of operating a business can be draining on your bank account. Having your staff work remotely can save you money by minimizing the equipment you have to have, the space you need, and even the supplies you need to give your employees to do their job. 

For employees, the savings come in when they don’t have to commute back and forth to the office and the ability to eat at home for lunch instead of eating out. 

Con: Security Issues

When your employees work inside of your office building, they use your computers and other devices. You can control the virus protection and security in your building. However, when they work from home, you can’t be sure that your business information is being kept safe from hackers and other people looking to harm your business through the internet.  

Pro: Creates Better Work-Life Balance

Life isn’t all about work. Unfortunately, traveling to and from the office and even the time you spend inside the office eats into your life and family time. It’s been estimated that working remotely can provide employees with up to 105 more hours they can spend with family and friends. What this all adds up to is better work-life balance and happier employees, who are much more productive. 

On top of creating a better work-life balance is that the ability to work remotely is a great recruitment strategy for employers. When you have an excellent potential candidate for a job, it could easily tip the scales in your favor if you offer them the option to work from home when the other guy makes them work from the office. 

These are just a few of the pros and cons of continuing to work remotely post COVID-19. Whether you’re an employer or an employee, do your research, weigh the pros and cons carefully, then decide which option is the best choice for you.