Five Compelling Arguments for Why Your Work Should Extend Beyond the Office

The modern American workplace is outdated. Many aspects, from schedules to dress codes, come from past decades, dating back to post-WWII times or even earlier industrial periods. For today’s world, significant changes are needed, especially in how we view the office as the central place for work. Studies show that sedentary office jobs harm long-term health, and while office layouts have changed from cubicles to open spaces, health risks have increased.

No matter how trendy or relaxed modern offices get—whether they include perks like ping pong tables or cozy meeting spaces—the idea of centralizing work in one location has never truly benefited American workers. Millennials, now the largest group in the workforce, are pushing for change but often find themselves working longer hours with fewer vacations to stay competitive.

Countries like New Zealand and Sweden have successfully tested shorter workweeks and workdays. These changes don’t aim to eliminate offices but to show that work organization needs improvement. Options like permanent telecommuting, splitting time between home and the office, or going out for assignments and meetings can help avoid the feeling of being confined to an office and offer numerous benefits for businesses.

Each year, it becomes easier for employees to work from various locations, whether making a sales pitch on a golf course or finalizing a contract at a client’s office. Almost every business uses at least one customer-relationship management (CRM) tool, keeping staff connected and organized no matter their location. The CRM market, already worth billions, is expanding rapidly, offering tools that fit any need.

Additionally, CRM software has evolved to cloud-based technology, meaning a company’s office doesn’t have to be its core. Working from an office, especially during long commutes and in subpar chairs, negatively impacts mental and physical health, increasing rates of depression and other conditions like obesity and heart disease. Creating a more flexible schedule, away from the office for part of the week, can significantly enhance employees’ work-life balance, leading to happier and more productive workers.

Often in office settings, employees spend a lot of time unclear about their tasks. Remote work, however, demands better communication and clear task management, resulting in more focused work schedules. Workers understand exactly what is expected, improving efficiency, which is crucial for small businesses that rely on quick customer service.

Small businesses typically thrive locally but may struggle to find the right talent within their immediate area. By hiring remote workers, geographic limitations no longer matter, greatly expanding the talent pool and allowing for more selective hiring. Virtual interviews are now just as common as in-person ones.

Small businesses generally have happier employees, enjoying more freedom and control. Embracing telecommuting and flexible schedules can enhance these positive aspects. You don’t need to physically monitor employees to see results; the freedom and trust given to them can lead to better outcomes for your business.