Remote working is a term that's been getting thrown around lately because the emergence of sites like UpWork and advancements in technology. However, many people think that remote working is only suitable for programmers, designers or freelancers. More recently we've seen businesses and law firms embracing this idea of 'working from anywhere.' All of the amazing benefits of working remotely have led more attorneys and legal professionals to ditch their downtown office for their home office.
What Makes Remote Working Possible for Attorneys?
Three words - cloud-based software. Working remotely is pretty much out of the question without a truly could and web-based system. Softwares like Clio and NextChapter make it possible for you to work from home, at the nearest coffee shop or even at the park as long as you have an internet capable device and a strong connection. Leah Judd, a legal assistant from Arizona, utilizes NextChapter to work from home and has experienced only positive results. She has found that she can work on cases at home just as efficiently (if not more) as she does in an office.
More Productive
According to CanadaLife, remote workers rate their productivity at a 7.7 out of 10, while those who work in a traditional office only rate their productivity at a 6.5 out of 10. How is that possible? There are distractions that come with working at home, but ultimately your typical office setting comes with even more, such as talkative co-workers and business solicitors. At home you are free of those disruptions and are much more comfortable, allowing you to be more creative and find your focus.
Happier & More Loyal Employees
Employees that work remotely are more satisfied with their job because of the flexibility their employer provides. If you're an attorney that has a few staff members, giving your paralegals the option to work remotely will make them happier and result in less turnover. In fact, 82% of U.S. workers said they would be a more loyal employee if their company offered remote working options (FlexJobs). But what does this mean for the solo attorney? Working from home will prevent burnout on your end and make working far more enjoyable.
Caters to All Members of the Workforce
It's common knowledge that millennials are more open to working remotely, but by surprise, the older population is also in favor of this lifestyle. AARP recently published research that stated 74% of older Americans want flexible working while 34% would prefer working from home. Remote working is now wildly accepted across all ages, making it perfect for you and every employee at your law firm.
With the existence of technologies like Slack and Google Hangouts (and NextChapter!), the traditional 9-5 office work day is being overtaken by remote working. All of the benefits discussed above and the absence of large overhead expenses of office spaces makes working remotely attractive to law firms who are looking for a leaner, more efficient practice.