Remote-first and distributed company models use teleworking as their default mode of operation, and optimize all processes and tools accordingly.
Companies employing this model also provide more flexible schedules, allowing employees to set their own hours and find their own way into work – giving them a greater work-life balance.
1. Flexibility
Remote-first companies include flexibility as a part of their business model, so employees are free to work from anywhere – such as at home or anywhere they choose – with tools, processes, and communication support in place to facilitate productivity.
By hiring employees from across the globe, this model allows companies to tap into global talent pools instead of being limited by local candidates for recruitment. Furthermore, a virtual office environment helps save on costs associated with leasing new office spaces or purchasing equipment necessary for in-office-only companies.
This business model also helps employees reduce stress levels by enabling them to work from home and save on commute expenses and time. Furthermore, virtual teams promote a healthier work-life balance by permitting employees to set their own hours and take time off as desired – which allows for effective virtual teams that put results first instead of hours worked.
2. Reduced costs
The remote-first model offers companies a cost-cutting benefit by eliminating office rental costs and tapping into an enlarged talent pool without geographic limitations. Unfortunately, however, this may create communication issues within teams if it’s implemented poorly.
Remote-first companies prioritize remote work by designing their policies, processes, and culture with it in mind. This approach eliminates information asymmetry that leaves remote employees feeling left out while also eliminating proximity bias that negatively impacts company performance. Teams working together optimally are given the chance to focus on producing their best work resulting in higher productivity overall and an ultimately happier workforce.
3. Reliability
Reliability refers to the probability that an object or system will perform according to its stated conditions and over a given period without failing or malfunction. It measures consistency and dependability of an experiment or research study.
Example: In an experiment, results will likely be more reliable if a scale is used to weigh a bag of chips each time during an experiment than if its weight changes with every measurement. Within the context of a remote-first company, reliability means consistently and efficiently providing employees with tools and systems they require in order to collaborate efficiently.
Virtual meeting tools facilitate efficient communication and collaboration as well as public channels that allow one-on-one discussions; these ensure remote workers don’t miss any information or cannot contribute.
4. Increased productivity
A remote-first model ensures employees are fully integrated into the company, eliminating problems associated with companies in which office and remote team members exist on two distinct tiers. This makes awarding promotions to top performers working remotely much simpler, and ensures all team members can access essential resources for key projects and meetings.
Successful remote teams place more value on results rather than time spent, with employee performance evaluated on how much work has actually been completed rather than how many hours employees spend at their desks. This approach encourages employees to work during times when they can be most productive – helping drive productivity up.
Attracting talent from around the globe helps boost productivity. Through digital tools that facilitate one-on-one meetings and group discussions, remote teams can communicate more easily with colleagues located across borders.
5. Collaboration
Effective collaboration is of utmost importance in a remote-first model. Since day-to-day human interactions that would normally take place at an office don’t happen remotely, companies should make sure remote employees feel included and part of their teams through virtual bonding activities such as social channels dedicated to casual chitchat, team social events and friendly competitions.
Remote-first companies also tend to foster higher trust environments, leading to greater employee satisfaction and productivity. It’s easier for team members to feel valued by managers when communication happens asynchronously and outside physical spaces. This fosters an open mindset with shared purpose and belongingness.
