Is Remote Working Still a Good Idea in 2022?

With most Malaysians having completed their vaccinations, life has begun to offer a semblance of normalcy again. In the employment world, Malaysians have already begun to return to the physical office again, although many organisations still choose to allow for flexible or hybrid work arrangements for their employees. 

With many employees still calling for remote and hybrid work models, a common question that employers and HR practitioners have: is remote working still a good idea? Granted, there isn’t a clear right or wrong answer here — but we’ve listed down some important things to consider when making key decisions on work arrangements at your company. 

Employees want to work remotely

Based on a 2021 report, Malaysian professionals from the 35-and-under demographic plan to leave their jobs at some point in 2022. Reasons for this trend include inflexibility when it comes to work arrangements, with many preferring the versatility of flexible work arrangements due to family arrangements, avoiding daily commutes, and a variety of other personal reasons. 

As such, it could be argued that remote work — or rather, flexible work arrangements — is a strong tool in the employee retention arsenal of any HR department. Economists warn that significant improvement in work conditions is required to prevent a talent drain in Malaysia, so it’s crucial that HR practitioners continue to ensure that turnover rates are kept relatively low. 

Tip: Download our FREE Checklist to ensure that your company is ready for the Great Resignation 

But flexible work models can be challenging

However, hybrid and remote work arrangements can still be a challenge for certain organisations. Physical meetings and workplaces are mandatory for certain industries and types of work, although for many companies, the right digital tools are required in order to offer employee flexibility — while maintaining, or even improving employee performance. 

Consequently, it’s absolutely essential to invest in the right digital systems, with consulting firm Accenture stating that people feel productive — wherever they are — when they have access to the following resources: 

• Autonomy 
• Positive mental health 
• Digital skills 
• Health policies 
• Supportive leadership 

These digital tools can range from business phone systems such as Omni Hotline, or even automation tools such as Zapier and social media tools. But the first and foremost thing any flexible organisation needs is, of course, a comprehensive end-to-end HR solution.

Here at altHR, we believe that a good HRMS shouldn’t only cover the basic, day-to-day operations of HR. Instead, every company in Malaysia should have access to a powerful platform that can also help in long-term employee engagement and happiness. Here are some ways that altHR can help with flexible work arrangements: 

• Performance management 
• Daily Check-Ins 
• Time Tracking & Rostering 

Find out more about that here.