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According to the State of Remote Work report 2023 most managers (79%) feel their team are more productive when working remote/hybrid. The same report states that startup environments may be a particularly strong match for remote work.
Here is why:
1. Remote work expands the startup talent pool
Recruiting the best team is super important for startup leaders. It's tough to find the right people, especially if you only look nearby. One of the most effective ways to maximize your talent pool is therefore to remove all geographic limitations.
2. Expands diversity of thought
When you remove geographic barriers, you will most likely find people from different parts of the country (or world) with varied perspectives - these individuals can bring strong diversity of thought.
3. Remote work builds trust
When working with remote employees, trust matters more than watching them. Focus on results, not constant monitoring, to build a positive work culture that scales well for startups. Trust your team from the beginning; it saves time and boosts engagement.
4. Drives flexibility
In early-stage startups, employees often work long and unusual hours, sometimes from anywhere. The State of Remote Work report says 51% of remote workers choose remote work for a better work-life balance. Startups can be all-consuming, but remote work can help people balance personal and work life, leading to happier and more motivated employees.
5. Develops culture
As organizations grow, it's harder to change their culture. If a bigger company wants to start remote or flexible work, it can be done, but it needs careful planning and clear communication with all employees. Remote work makes startups practice communication skills from the start as you´ll have to learn to communicate well across different places, time zones, and technologies. These skills will help you communicate effectively as your company gets much bigger.
6. Lowers office costs
As a startup, every penny counts. Leaders need to make smart investments and keep a close look on the impact of their investments. While saving money shouldn’t be the primary advantage of supporting a remote work culture, it certainly can be a perk.
7. Retains employees
The most striking data point in the State of Remote Work was that companies that support remote work see 25% lower employee turnover than companies that don’t. Considering the points earlier, perhaps you aren’t so surprised. As we discussed, companies that support remote work are more diverse, flexible, and practice trust. If you build your startup with those building blocks in your DNA, you’re off to a great start.
