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 home. Remote workers can be an unforeseen and uncontrolled vulnerability, especially when a very high percentage of the workforce is involved.

Confidentiality

Something as simple as locking a computer when taking a break will prevent strategic plans, personal databases or profit and loss statements from being seen by third parties living under the same roof, thus breaching important employee confidentiality agreements with the company, and the company with stakeholders.

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. Contextualizing 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 and methods to organize to more effectively meet deadlines. Organizing a production and delivery schedule and encouraging proper time management are the best ways 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 neighbor’s dog or a roommate’s noise will distract them. There are solutions for everyone.