The coronavirus pandemic compelled people all over the world to transition into becoming a virtual dependent world. There are students who were forced to adjust to online-learning and leaving millions of employees to become unemployed. The streets have become ominously quiet as well as millions of companies and businesses having to shut their doors. The coronavirus pandemic has remarkably affected the business world. In order to sustain the economy during this pandemic, there are a numerous number of miscellaneous companies encouraging remote work.

Remote working during a pandemic as abominable as COVID-19 has its benefits but also holds some disadvantages. Advantages of working remotely include a soar in productivity, income, and guaranteed safety from any exposure right from the comfort of one’s own home. Remotely working can encourage saving money and time. Companies are able to benefit from cost reduction by minimizing office space and logistics while increased productivity. Employees who commute, save money on fares, and those who drive save gas. Due to a shutdown of innumerable non-essential companies, it is less likely to spend money. It allows us to spend more on necessities rather than extra things. Working home also gives the opportunity for millions of people to remain employed being the only way to follow safe quarantine guidelines while still getting paid. Millions of people turn to a jobless aid system known as unemployment insurance, in order to be able to keep up with bills. Because many are left with no choice but to apply, the unemployment rates rocketed leading to flaws, crashes, and bugs in the website declining applicants. Employment during a pandemic is difficult to maintain or even obtain. There are plenty of people who are struggling financially. Those who are still getting paid are considered lucky from those unemployed. Remotely working also promotes freelance work and can reduce stress. In other words, employees are able to work on their time allowing flexibility. There is no need for timesheets or deadlines. Employees will be able to concentrate more with fewer distractions than in an office setting. It can reduce stress while improving the work-life balance.

Cons of working remotely may include social interaction, a busy household, and minimal micro-managing. Remotely working can alter work environments to experiencing less social interactions with fellow colleagues. Any type of meeting, conference, or presentation would have to be through video chats or resulting in instant messaging or even phone calls. Some people may live in a busy household where it is nearly impossible to allocate a quiet workspace. This can disrupt the professionalism of one’s work. In addition, companies aren’t able to micromanage their team as habitually. It is important to ensure employees remain as prompt and drive as one would normally be in a regular work environment. Employers are now trusting their employees to know how to deliver on their job and the responsibilities they have. Technical difficulties are also a possibility that can affect one’s work performance such as lagging the internet, weak wifi, and puts employees in a position to be more tech-savvy.

Eventually, the virus will descend but in the meantime, it’s predicted that employees will have to continue remote working until further notice. The idea of remote working has its pros and cons for employees, companies, and society.