The COVID-19 pandemic changed how we go about our daily lives. It has taught us to be more cautious in an effort to prevent getting infected by the virus. It has also made us realize that we need to adapt by finding new ways to stay financially capable during these trying times.
Companies in the Philippines, in general, were forced to go out of their comfort zones by implementing a new work setup. Due to the health risk brought upon by COVID-19, companies that have the capacity implemented a Work From Home (WFH) setup, especially during the height of the pandemic.
Now, companies are slowly requiring their workforce to return to an office-based setup since the country is categorized as low risk, and many individuals have already been inoculated. For some, this is good news as an office-based environment makes them more productive. But, there’s also the other side of the coin where an individual is more efficient when working from home.
A study entitled Work Never Away From Home: Exploring the Concept of Work Among Home-Based Workers by Jonathan de la Cerna published in University of the Philippines Open University revealed an interesting idea about WFH setup.
The study’s respondents stated that WFH allows them to have more control over their professional and personal lives. The respondents also said that having the liberty to choose their preferred location of workstation is among the positives given by a WFH setup. De la Cerna also cited sources stating that WFH increases productivity, and reduces absenteeism.
Another study entitled The Truth About Working from Home showed that its sample respondents are 36 percent more productive on a WFH setup. Furthermore, 33 percent of its respondents want to WFH frequently while 27 percent of its respondents would like to have a WFH setup permanently.
The said study added that less commuting time is the main reason why individuals prefer a WFH setup. Other factors stated are more flexibility in working hours, and a comfortable/relaxed environment.
Of note, both studies cited in this article were conducted before the current fuel price hike we are experiencing. As such, that could potentially add to the reasons why a WFH setup is becoming favorable to some individuals.
But then again, working from home can also be challenging for some. For one, you need to have a dedicated space for your workstation as well as a reliable internet connection. Working from home can also be difficult as some individuals tend to overwork or are given more workload resulting in longer hours of staying in front of one’s computer or laptop.
How about you? Do you prefer working from home? Or you’re the type of individual that’s more efficient when working in an actual office? Cast your vote now in Philkotse’s Poll of the Week.