A quick spot check of work-life patterns shows a growing preference for remote work among Kenyans. This is thanks to technological advancements that have improved communication, a relatively low cost of living, and the growing trend of flexible work arrangements and collaboration among team members.

More workers in Kenya are expected to work remotely in the coming years, according to a recent Bowman’s employment trends forecast The rise in remote work is arguably one of the largest business culture shifts since the advent of the five-day work week in 1932. This culture skyrocketed after the Covid pandemic.

In recent years, there has been growing debate on the impact of remote work on individuals and organisations. Initially, major corporations viewed remote work as a means to tap into a vast talent pool of individuals who reside outside of major cities and are not relocating. Prominent tech leaders such as Elon Musk have voiced their reservations about remote working, suggesting that it may not solely be a matter of productivity.

The future of remote work raises many questions about productivity, decision-making, and finding a balance between office and remote work. These issues involve meeting stakeholder needs, attracting and keeping talent, and enhancing the social aspects of work. The ongoing debate about remote work versus working in the office depends on personal preferences, job needs, and company culture.

A recent study by Harvard Business School suggests that allowing employees to work from different locations can save money for both the company and the employees. The study found that employees working remotely could earn more and get more work done, which also helped the local economy. Working from home lets employees keep up their productivity and save time and money they would have spent travelling to work. It also gave them more flexibility to balance their work and personal lives. The Covid pandemic proved that remote work can work, but not necessarily for everyone.

Data shows that people’s working hours increased, but many find it harder to delineate work-life boundaries. While some employees prefer remote work due to its benefits, others may feel more comfortable and productive in a traditional office setting. The comparison isn’t between work from home and office work, but rather between the perceptions about the two. Many people argue that remote working enhances productivity. For instance, the absence of a daily commute may reduce stress and improve focus on work. However, remote work can also result in a diminished sense of psychological safety, trust, and power dynamics, as well as increased feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Remote work is a growing trend among employers, offering significant advantages in terms of operational costs. It can lead to slower wage growth for employees, but employers can also see higher retention savings on onboarding and real estate costs. Remote employees can be more cost-effective to maintain, which can offset potential productivity losses. Remote work improves employee satisfaction and well-being by offering flexibility and lifestyle choices.

As technology advances and reshapes the way we work, it is crucial for individuals and organisations to remain agile and adaptable. Remote work offers flexibility and opportunities for increased productivity, but it also presents challenges such as maintaining work-life balance and fostering team collaboration. By staying proactive and continuously learning and evolving, we can navigate the complexities of remote work and thrive in this new era of work.

—The writer is an Innovations Evangelist and a PhD Candidate; machariamuhoho@gmail.com