Well-being of remote workers: Work characteristics and challenges

Abstract

Orientation: Remote working has allowed employees greater flexibility in fulfilling their tasks; but with the recent rapid shift to working from home for a significant proportion of the workforce, the common notions about remote work should be revisited, especially in a developing world context.

Research purpose: The aim of the research was to test the relationship between remote work challenges (i.e. procrastination, loneliness and work–home interference) and remote work characteristics (social support and job autonomy) and its effects on employee well-being, while controlling for workload and self-discipline.

Motivation for the study: Although remote working is not new, the changing work context has emphasised the opportunities in flexibility and job opportunities. However, challenges exist especially around the mental well-being of workers.

Research approach/design and method: A mixed method approach was followed with a cross-sectional quantitative survey as the primary focus, with an open-ended question added. Data were collected in the finance industry during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) enforced lockdown period, when employees were compelled to work from home owing to the national lockdown restrictions.

Main findings: The study confirmed the hypothesis that employee well-being will be more pronounced during remote work if employees have fewer remote work challenges and are exposed to positive remote work characteristics. The study further found that the relationship between remote work challenges and well-being is influenced by self-discipline and workload.

Practical/managerial implications: Managers will do well to consider time and place dimensions for work models in their context, but must be mindful of the challenges and opportunities.

Contribution/value-add: The findings of the study are grounded in elements of self-determination theory, and the main implication for practice is the insight on how to facilitate a working environment that promotes well-being in the context of remote working.