The concept of virtual offices has been around for over two decades. In 1994, the first commercial application of this type of work environment was launched. Many employees would actually prefer to work remotely rather than commute to a traditional office. A recent survey found that 80% of employees perceived this option as a definite job perk. When employees are given the option of working remotely, they tend to have fewer absences and are more productive.
A new study revealed that there are specific industries that are more likely to use virtual offices than others. Here are the top ten industries:
- Financial
- Legal
- Consulting
- Technology
- Real estate and brokers
- Healthcare
- Marketing and advertising
- Entertainment
- Retail
- Construction
Another study was conducted with 1,000 professionals across various industries. The results showed that 65% allowed their employees to work on a remote basis. Furthermore, 67% of the professionals that participated in the study agreed that this style of work was productive. In addition to increasing productivity, 46% of the participating companies stated that telework had reduced attrition. The American Management Association reported that when organizations have implemented telework programs, they experienced a 63% reduction in unscheduled absences.
When employers offer their employees the option of telecommuting, they can also reduce their overall operating costs. Almost six out of ten of the employers that participated indicated that this was a major benefit for their company. While some companies may still maintain furnished office spaces, they may not require as large a space as they would need if they didn’t allow telecommuting.
In order to create a positive and effective virtual office environment, there are different office solutions that work together. Meeting rooms, for example, are available on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis. When meeting rooms are available for on-demand use, it can streamline the co-working process and increase flexibility. Other office solutions include services such as technology and technology support.
Whether your company currently offers its employees the option of working remotely or is planning to do so in the near future, you’re likely interested in learning more about the benefits of establishing a virtual office. Once you contact a representative to obtain more information, they will be able to explain the different types of services available. There’s an excellent chance that you will notice a reduction in absenteeism and an increase in productivity as soon as you institute this new platform.
