Tweeting into the Telecommuting Era

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, companies initially avoided allowing their employees to work from home. They were worried about the effects on productivity, team collaboration, and employee focus without supervision during lockdown. Given the uncertainties surrounding the virus, these concerns were justified. However, it has now become evident that remote working can be successful. As one of the latest entrants to this trend, even Twitter now permits its staff to work from home.

Work in Pre-COVID-19 Era

In recent years, telecommuting has become a prevalent mode of work and has gained immense importance during the COVID-19 pandemic. It refers to the practice of performing job-related tasks remotely, often from outside of the conventional office space. It has allowed many businesses to function without the need for a physical workplace by permitting employees to work from home. Consequently, more and more organisations are benefiting from this more adaptable and cost-effective approach to work.

The offices of leading tech giants such as Facebook, Amazon, and Google are considered as among the finest workplaces globally. They have revolutionised conventional workplace norms and set a new standard for office spaces. Historical workplaces used to be dull, outdated structures, where employees had to work in small cubicles and treated as disposable units. Fortunately, the bygone era is now behind us, and it is evident that these IT companies recognise the value of providing their workforce with an inspiring work environment to promote creativity and innovation.

Encouraging innovation within the workplace was among the primary objectives of Steve Jobs. When he served as Pixar’s CEO in 2000, he designed a novel headquarters to promote collaboration. He accomplished this by eliminating the barriers that typically existed between teams and departments.

The facility designed by Steve Jobs encouraged collaboration and promoted the growth of strong working relationships among colleagues from different regions. By consolidating different departments – including editing, marketing, and animation – under one roof, employees had the opportunity to interact with one another regularly, stimulating communication, creativity, and a sense of shared purpose. This enabled them to forge meaningful personal connections and team up to accomplish common goals.

In the subsequent decade, several businesses made major strides in providing their workforce with more inspiring and dynamic workplaces that lessened burnout, fostered spontaneous interactions among creative thinkers, and boosted their productivity. These firms established stunning workplaces that enticed talented individuals and organisations, courtesy of the competitive salaries and prospects for professional growth they provided. Workspaces established by tech businesses served as more than just labour hubs; they were equipped with all the amenities required for a comprehensive lifestyle. From rooftop pools, sleep pods and workout facilities, to coffee bars, deck areas and playrooms, they had it all.

Twitter Dispels Telecommuting Myths

Twitter is an established IT enterprise with a workforce of approximately 4,900 employees. It belongs to a group of companies that occupy contemporary workspaces and employ trendy individuals. Its San Francisco headquarters is replete with communal areas, such as coffee lounges, a spacious cafeteria, and a rooftop barbecue section, that foster a cordial ambience and encourage its employees to socialise. These spaces serve as a canvas for workers to unleash their creative potential.

Jack Dorsey, the co-founder and current CEO of Twitter, realised that remote working had the potential to be more productive than working from a traditional office. On May 12, he informed his staff that after the pandemic, they could request to work remotely for the long term. This revelation provides a thrilling chance for employees to have a unique working experience.

The staff were notified that while the physical office space is unlikely to be available until September, they can still opt for remote work. The company has yielded favourable outcomes by allowing their employees to work from home, so those who prefer can stick with this arrangement. It is ultimately at the discretion of the employees.

A Twitter spokesperson recently made a statement, noting that “Over the past few months, we have recognised that remote work can be a pragmatic choice. If any of our staff are in a situation where they can work remotely and choose to do so long-term, we will strive to support them.”

Are More Businesses Joining the Remote Work Revolution?

On May 18th, Jack Dorsey, the co-founder and CEO of Square, Inc., declared that he would apply the same concept of making the company more reachable from afar. The belief that “the workplace can be anywhere” is profoundly ingrained in the company’s culture.

As per the company’s spokesperson, they are dedicated to providing a conducive atmosphere that empowers their staff to achieve their utmost levels of creativity and productivity. The firm has decided to allow employees who are currently working from home to persist with remote work indefinitely, even after the physical offices reopen. They have acknowledged that they have gleaned many insights on how to optimise remote work in recent weeks, and will continuously strive to expand their knowledge in this area.

Tech firms like Facebook and Google have opted to extend their work-from-home policies until the conclusion of the year. The prospect of remote employment on a permanent basis has not yet been addressed publicly.

Businesses may need to make significant permanent changes once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, which could have an impact. On March 30th, Gartner published the findings of a survey they conducted with 317 Chief Financial Officers and other finance professionals. What was revealed in this research?

  • According to a recent survey, 75% of those who participated believed that a minimum of 5% of their employees, who previously worked on-site, will become full-time remote workers after the pandemic.

Amidst the uncertainty of what lies ahead, one fact remains evident: remote work is no longer a futuristic idea but an integral part of our current reality.

Are We Committed to Making the Shift?

Here at Works, we have been practicing remote work for a considerable duration and recognise its benefits. By thoughtfully assembling a suitable team and maintaining seamless communication despite the physical distance, we have observed the productivity that can be achieved while working from home.

Remote work is not a one-size-fits-all solution. One must possess the appropriate skills and mindsets to excel in a telecommuting role. Essential skills include effective communication, self-motivation, and the ability to adhere to a schedule. If you are searching for the ideal IT team, we can assist you. As experienced technical recruiters, we are adept at locating top-notch global talent that is tailor-made for your company culture. We know that having the right team is akin to having the perfect condiment for a burger; it’s the perfect combination.

Don’t put off hiring the world’s best developer to bolster your team any longer. Let us ease your burden by handling the difficult task at hand. Hire now.

PS: Our Vice President of Operations, Rustam Ahverdiev, has created a 45-minute leadership masterclass to support those of you who require guidance on managing your remote workforce during these pandemic times. We strongly encourage you to book your spot at the earliest convenience.

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