The Benefits of Offering Remote Work for Accounting Firms
In recent years, remote work has become a hot topic in the business world, and for good reason. With advances in technology and the rise of remote work culture, accounting firms are presented with a unique opportunity to improve their business operations and retain top talent by offering remote work options.
Here are some of the key benefits of offering remote work for accounting firms
Increased Flexibility:
Remote work allows employees to have a better work-life balance, as they can choose to work from the comfort of their own home or from a location that suits their needs. This flexibility leads to increased job satisfaction and motivation, resulting in a more productive and engaged workforce.
Wider Talent Pool:
By offering remote work, accounting firms can attract top talent from across the country, rather than being limited to their local area. This can result in a more diverse and skilled workforce, which in turn can bring new perspectives and ideas to the company.
Lower Overhead Costs:
With remote workers, accounting firms can save money on expenses such as office rent, utilities, and equipment. This can result in a more profitable business, and the savings can be invested in other areas of the company.
Improved Productivity:
Studies have shown that remote workers tend to be more productive than those who work in a traditional office environment. This is likely due to the absence of distractions and the ability to focus better in a comfortable and familiar setting.
Increased Employee Retention:
Offering remote work options can result in a more engaged and loyal workforce. Employees appreciate the flexibility and trust that comes with remote work, and are more likely to remain with the company for the long term.
Steps Accounting Firms can take to Make Remote Work Successful
While remote work can bring many benefits to a company, making it successful requires a different approach compared to a traditional office setting.
Here are several key factors to consider when making remote work successful for accounting firms
Clear Communication:
Communication is key in any work environment, but even more so in a remote setting. It’s essential for accounting firms to establish clear and regular communication channels, such as video conferencing, email, or instant messaging, to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Trust and Autonomy:
Remote workers need trust and autonomy to be successful. Accounting firms should provide clear guidelines and expectations, but also trust their employees to manage their own time and work. This can result in a more engaged and motivated workforce.
Commitment to Technology:
Remote work requires technology that is secure, reliable, and easy to use. Accounting firms should invest in the necessary tools and systems, such as cloud-based accounting software, project management tools, and virtual private networks, to ensure that remote workers have the tools they need to be productive.
Collaboration:
Collaboration is essential for a successful remote team, and accounting firms should encourage this through regular virtual meetings and team-building activities. These can help to build trust and foster relationships, which in turn can lead to a more cohesive and effective team.
Work-Life Balance:
Encouraging a healthy work-life balance is important for all employees, but even more so for remote workers. Accounting firms should encourage their remote workers to take regular breaks, set clear boundaries between work and personal time, and provide support if needed.
How Firms can Oversee and Manage Remote Workers
Overseeing and managing remote workers differs greatly in some areas from overseeing in-office employees. Managers must be checking in and making sure work is getting done and employees have the tools and answers needed to do their jobs. At the same time, managers need to make sure they aren’t being overbearing and micromanaging employers.
Managers should establish clear expectations for work hours, communication, and performance. Provide guidelines for when and how remote workers should be available, and how they should communicate with the team. This helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that work is being completed efficiently.
Regular check-ins, either through video conferencing or phone calls, are also essential for keeping remote workers connected and engaged. These check-ins can be a great opportunity to provide feedback, discuss progress, and address any concerns.
TL;DR
Offering remote work can be a smart move for accounting firms looking to remain competitive and retain top talent. Remote work can lead to a more productive, engaged, and satisfied workforce, as well as a more profitable business. So why not give it a try?
LumiQ has a CPE/CPD podcast with Resiliency and productivity coach Scott Orth, walking through how employees can maintain productivity and focus in a hybrid environment.
We’re also offering 5 free hours of CPE/CPD so CPAs can get their CPE/CPD in an easy and enjoyable way, via podcasts!
