If you've ever thought that telecommuting hinders companies more than it helps, I'm here to change your mind. Telecommuting has been a topic of debate for a while now, especially with high-profile companies like Yahoo dismissing the very idea. However, it is hard to deny that more and more workers are looking for positions that offer flexible work, and it is slowly becoming the norm for employers to offer such perks. Aside from benefits such as improved work-life balance, telecommuting can also save employers a lot of money. Here's how:
1. Low Overhead
If each business allowed employees to work from home only half the time, they would save an average of $11,000 a year. Reduced costs come from savings in leases/mortgages, utilities, office supplies, and even from coffee and water expenses.
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2. High Retention
Employees who want to work from home and are able to do so report higher job satisfaction levels and company loyalty than those who work on-site. In one study from Staples Advantage, telecommuters reported having 25% lower stress levels, and 73% reported eating healthier. A report from Global Workplace Analytics cited that 36% of employees would choose the option to telecommute over a raise, and 37% would take a pay cut for the chance to work from home.
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3. Less Sick Days
Telecommuters are less likely to take sick days than those who work in an office. Unschedule absences account for an average of $1,800 in losses per employee every year. Many absences are due to personal appointments during the workday, or are related to stress and other personal issues. Since telecommuters have a better work-life balance and have more flexibility in their schedules, this is no longer an issue.
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Visit Entrepreneur to learn more ways telecommuting can save employers big bucks.
