Take the current lockdown status caused by COVID-19 – something that nobody could have predicted. This has highlighted the need for companies to have robust business continuity plans in place – now, more so than ever.
It’s therefore no surprise that the firms which are rising to the challenge to operate as ‘normal’ during this period of disruption, are those that are better connected – proving that a future-proofed broadband infrastructure is key.
Coronavirus aside, there are a number of other scenarios where colleagues may have to make the switch from the traditional office environment to working from home – such as the flooding of workplaces as seen earlier in 2020 or needing to look after poorly children when absent from school.
That’s why – without fast, reliable and secure connectivity in the homes of staff as well as company premises – business continuity becomes severely jeopardised.
Thankfully, the continually unfolding move towards full fibre broadband across the UK, promises to provide unmatched speed and reliability of connectivity. And, if we follow the progress of our European neighbours, the nation could soon benefit from the creation and development of new start-up organisations, a much-needed boost to the local economy, and an increase in long-term homeworking capabilities.
Making remote working ‘work’ for your business
Remote working is nothing new for the Trenches Law team, with many of our colleagues carrying out their roles from various locations across the country. We have long held the belief that this is part of what makes our offering unique – we pride ourselves for our ‘on the ground’ service, comprehensive knowledge of the local areas we work in, and the empowerment of colleagues to operate flexibly.
At a time when many organisations are being forced to adopt remote working – rather than choosing this ‘way of life’ – we’ve shared what we think is great about this shift, and why we think it could aid the continuity of more businesses leaning towards this way of working moving forward.
Reduced commuting time
For most staff, commuting to the office takes up valuable time that could otherwise be spent being productive. If your workstation is situated in the confines of your own home, on the other hand, you could save many hours in the day.
Use this to your advantage – and make the most of the time you’re not sitting in the car or on the train – to plan your work for the day ahead, keep in touch with the team or check-in with clients.
Flexibility
Agile working in general is an important benefit to offer to employees, at any time. This can help staff who have children, who care for elderly relatives, or even want to carry out mundane jobs such as taking their car to the garage.
Currently, the traditional 9-5 has been thrown out of the window for many workers, as they either juggle small children who are off school, or other obligations. But adapting to individuals’ needs – even once the COVID-19 situation has ended – is important, as this can improve staff retention rates and employees are less likely to be absent from work on a regular basis, if flexibility is available.
Fewer distractions
For many, the constant buzz and busy nature of an office can cause major disruption. Whether that’s due to telephones ringing – or merely the comings and goings of staff – some workers easily switch off and take their eye away from the topic in hand, due to the nature of their environment.
The option of being remote can therefore suit lots of employees. Generally, a workspace can be set up at home in a quieter area, enabling staff to get their head down and ultimately be more productive.
Using technology to your advantage
By utilising tools such as video conferencing and online messaging services, teams can still communicate effectively and remain engaged with business objectives. Whether this is via a daily – or even weekly – meeting, regular contact is essential, to ensure individuals are on the same page, and don’t feel isolated from colleagues.
Collaborative apps and systems such as these can also be used to develop better relationships with clients, as well as saving time and money once ‘normal’ working conditions resume.
In short, we have to look at the opportunities this way of working is offering us as a society and remain agile to the change.
We wish you all the best in these uncertain times, and should you want to speak to us about how to accelerate the expansion of your networks with the help of our specialist wayleave and legal services, contact one of our friendly team, today.
