South Carolina Remote Work Is Increasing Despite National Trends
It’s talked about often, with strong opinions on both sides, the return to the office. After the pandemic forced many of us to work from home, some became accustomed to that lifestyle, and want no part in in-person work anymore. But more and more companies are seeking to get employees back in the office. And overall that seems to be the trend. Some workers are willing to walk away from a job if it means the difference between going into an office and working from the comfort of home. Which may be required to do in most cities and states these days. Interestingly enough- it’s not in South Carolina, one of just 7 states where data shows remote work is increasing.
South Carolina Remote Work
And I’ll be honest, I don’t get the refusal to be in an office setting. Listen, I like the flexibility to work from home from time to time. Sometimes having that extra hour of commute time back is helpful. Other times I like to get laundry done during the day. Or maybe I just don’t have the energy to get up from my bed. But I also like getting up, going somewhere, and making work a separate part of my day. It’s better for my mental health. I like being able to interact with people in the office as well. (Though I’m writing this with my door closed being anti-social). So I can understand being hesitant to 100% inflexible in office work. But a hybrid, sorry I think you’re being ridiculous. I know many will disagree, however.
New data shared with us by LLC.org, tracked the trends in remote work nationwide. This was accomplished using Census Bureau data. And in the 100 most populous US cities, only 19 have seen an increase in remote workers. When it comes to states only 7, including South Carolina, say remote work opportunities growing. This means if you are deadset on staying home, well it’s going to be more competitive to secure that position.
North of the border, both Raleigh and Durham saw an approximately 20% decrease in remote work during the time period studied. This is interesting as the area is home to many technological companies which are some of the easiest to accommodate work from home. Thanks to our friends at LLC.org for sharing their research with us. You can read the full study and methodology here. Let us know your feelings about working from home below!
North Carolina Employers Here Is What Your Employees Actually Want
Listen To Your Employees
This is such a big one. Everyone wants to feel heard, and when employers are making decisions with no regards to the people who have to execute those decisions? Well, it’s not going to be as successful as it could potentially be. You don’t have to take every suggestion. But letting people know they have a right to an opinion, and that they are heard- it can do wonders for morale. The last thing employees want is to feel like a worker bee whom no one in ownership or management respects. Who better to help figure out how to make things run smoother and more productive than those doing the actual work? And you can’t solve a problem that you don’t know exists.
Regular Reviews
Check-in with your employees. Performance reviews done correctly can have an immense benefit to both employers and employees. It can increase morale by giving you an easy platform to praise what an employee is contributing. And also identify areas that need improvement and how to best implement strategies to help the employee with that. Plus when employees see that they are valued it can go a long way in increasing productivity and long-term success. Frequent reviews can also allow employers to identify any issues within a team and take action to correct those issues.
Encourage Development
Most employees don’t want to feel stagnant in a role. If there is no room for growth and development tasks become mundane and in turn, good employees can and will look elsewhere. Training can benefit the employer as well. Think of it as an investment. You have to spend money to make money. It’s also another way to show your employees that you value them and care about them and their careers.
Ensure Work-Life Balance
This is such a big one. I know for me personally I will go go go, but I will also burn out fast. I need that time to recharge. And especially after covid workers are demanding a work-life balance. Like it or not in order to maintain a valuable workforce, employers are going to have to comply. Whether it’s a flexible work schedule, days off, or encouraging physical fitness or mental health. A good work-life balance ensures productive and motivated employees. What employer does not want their employees to be less stressed?
Change Your Office Space
I’ve worked hard to make my office an oasis. Mood lighting, a stand-up desk, a walking pad treadmill, and decor that is “me”. Many people will still be more in favor of working from home (not a topic I want to get into at this point) or at least a hybrid work situation. A welcoming environment can make employees feel at home positively impacting and company culture.
Fair And Living Wages
And in this economy the one thing your employees want? It’s money. It’s not pizza or a pullover with your logo on it. It’s to be paid a living wage. It’s yearly raises that outpace inflation. It’s the best way to show your employees their value. The people who pull the most weight in any given company are almost always the lowest compensated. Mangers have an important job no question. But when you neglect to fairly compensate the others? You cannot and will not be successful long term. So invest in your people. You want them to work hard for you? Pay your employees their worth.
To See You Working Hard As Well
If you aren’t willing to work hard, why would your employees? Be visible and don’t let any job be beneath you. Spend time working directly with your employees, or perhaps offer to help with something. Being willing to help speaks volumes. And noticing when that help may be needed. It makes your employees feel seen. If all you are doing is delegating, there is a good chance that will be noticed. And it’s hard to respect a manager who has no problem throwing work at people but refuses to do the work themselves.
