Nearly four years ago, schools, workplaces, and many other services switched from in-person to virtual overnight. This sudden shift drastically changed the dynamic of workplaces that relied on in-person services; and while some have resorted to a hybrid model or have fully recalled employees to in-person work, others have completely adapted to a virtual layout. Although many may focus on the negative consequences of this virtual work-life, remote jobs have actually brought forth positive situations that simply cannot be ignored.

Currently, 12.7% of full-time employees in the U.S. work from home, according to Forbes, and an additional 28.2% rely on a hybrid schedule, meaning they work from home some days, but also in-person on others. One substantial statistic reveals that 98% of workers prefer some form of a hybrid model. Understandably, it offers an equilibrium between the new remote work and the old normal. It also allows for schedule flexibility that affords employees a better work-life balance, along with the benefit of possibly moving to another area, perhaps to be closer to family, if they do not need to stay local.

Another positive aspect to come from the shift to remote jobs can be seen in working parents. Data shows that working mothers, especially, enjoy virtual work because they can stay close to their children while working. There is also the added benefit of not having to commute hours to and from work in traffic, meaning that parents are home with their children the moment work ends. It also lets previously tired in-person employees invest time in improving their homes, and their new work environment. For instance, 71% of employees say that they have more time for household chores. Companies also have a larger applicant pool and can find more employees meeting their standards.

One negative effect of remote jobs is a decrease in overall productivity. Some sources claim that productivity has declined anywhere from 8-19%. This is especially true for people who were accustomed to in-person work throughout their entire careers and now have to work from home, where they may lose focus. Yuna Shin, a senior at Yorba Linda High School, says there are some instances she “did not like online services and school” because of communication, “as some people don’t reply or check their emails.” Joseph Kim, a senior at Cypress High School, agrees that online schooling offered a “worse learning experience and a lack of school services.”

Remote and hybrid jobs seem to result in both positive and negative consequences. Although there are concerns about productivity, Nick Bloom, an economist at Stanford University, says that productivity depends on how the company manages employees. It makes sense why employees now gravitate towards remote work opportunities, combining the best of both worlds.

<Kaylyn Kim Sunny Hills High School / 12th Grade>