Beyond the Office: Embracing Global Remote Working During the Festive Season

As the festive season approaches, the idea of ‘remote working’ takes on a whole new meaning. For many office-based businesses, hybrid and flexible working are already part of the norm. But what if we extended that flexibility to create a truly global remote working policy during the Christmas period?

Imagine this: Your workforce, empowered to work remotely from anywhere in the world during December and into the New Year. Whether it’s enjoying a snowy retreat in Scandinavia, working amidst the festive buzz of New York, or simply staying close to family abroad, the possibilities are endless—and incredibly enticing.

At DSE Assessments, we’ve seen firsthand how such policies can inspire and energise employees, while maintaining productivity. Here’s how businesses can adopt an extended remote working policy for the holidays.

The Benefits of a Festive Remote Working Policy

Work-life balance is more than just a buzzword—it’s a proven way to enhance productivity, increase creativity, and build loyalty among employees. A global remote working policy over Christmas could:

• Allow employees to reconnect with family and friends abroad.
• Give workers the flexibility to experience a meaningful holiday season, whether they’re travelling or staying local.
• Strengthen employee engagement and commitment to your organisation.

By supporting employees’ desires to make the most of the holidays, businesses demonstrate care and adaptability, which can lead to long-term retention and satisfaction.

Overcoming Employer Concerns

While the idea is attractive, many employers hesitate to implement global remote working policies due to logistical concerns, particularly around health and safety. However, with the right framework, managing a remote, globetrotting workforce is easier than you might think.

Here’s how you can make it happen:

• Assess Risks: Understand the challenges employees might face in different locations, from time zones to workspace setups.
• Define Processes: Establish clear guidelines on communication, reporting, and issue escalation while employees are remote.
• Provide Training: Equip employees with the knowledge they need to work safely and productively, even when away from the office.

Steps to Implementing a Festive Remote Work Policy

1. Identify Potential Risks:
   • Location: Will employees be able to work during required hours, considering time zones?
   • Environment: Can they set up a safe and comfortable workstation?
   • Connectivity: Do they have access to reliable internet for effective working?
2. Put Clear Processes in Place:
   • Mitigation: Ensure employees understand their responsibilities for compliance.
   • Communication: Keep remote workers connected with their teams.
   • Escalation: Define who to contact if issues arise.
3. Offer Comprehensive Training:
   • Topics such as DSE posture, basic safety, and taking breaks should be included.
   • Provide a downloadable DSE Checklist as a quick reference for employees.

Once these measures are in place, invite employees to apply for the opportunity to work remotely during the festive season. Assess each case individually to ensure business continuity and compliance with health and safety regulations.

Embrace the Spirit of Flexibility

By offering employees the freedom to work from anywhere over the Christmas break, businesses can foster a sense of trust and goodwill. And the benefits go both ways: A happy, engaged workforce is a productive one.

So, this festive season, why not give your team the gift of flexibility? Beyond the office is a wonderful, exciting world—let’s go and explore it!

Ready to implement a Global Working Policy?

DSE Assessments Ltd can guide you through the process, as we have done for other businesses. Give our team a call or contact us via email to find out more.

Tel: 0844 335 6188

Email: info@dse-assessments.co.uk