What to look for when hiring remote employees

Publication: Employee Relations Management Today

Date Posted: 05/06/2019

Hiring remote workers? Add these questions to the job interview.

Qualities to look for in a remote employee

In 2017, a Gallup survey indicated 43 percent of American employees work remotely at least some of the time, and that number has likely grown. While some employers may still be leery of the idea, picturing remote workers as pajama-clad slackers, both employers and employees told Gallup they have found remote workers to be more productive. In fact, those who spent 60 to 80 percent of their time away from the office reported the highest levels of engagement.

Gallup also found that flexible scheduling and work-from-home opportunities play a major role in an employee’s decision to take or leave a job, making them valuable tools in the ongoing challenge of filling positions in a tight job market.

In addition, hiring remote workers saves money on office-related expenses, making it especially practical for new or rapidly growing companies. When hiring remote employees, however, employers may need to think differently about that they’re looking for.

Qualities to look for in a remote employee

This article was featured in the Employee Relations Management Today newsletter.

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