The Summer of Remote Work: World Cup Chaos and Pricey Commutes

Stanford economist and remote work researcher Nicholas Bloom says many companies are never going back to being fully in-office, and the flexibility offered by remote work is a major reason why. Despite years of high-profile return-to-office mandates from companies including Amazon and JPMorgan Chase, this summer has proven to be the perfect example of remote work’s advantages. The combination of World Cup matches, punishing heat waves, and higher gasoline prices due in part to the Iran war, employees are increasingly looking to avoid the office when they can. Bloom argues companies could benefit from treating remote work as a way to maintain productivity in harsh conditions. Unexpected events from severe weather and surging fuel prices to the World Cup don’t have to equate to lost productivity and disgruntled workers, when employees can just log on from home.

The Benefits of Remote Work - World Cup matches, scorching temperatures, and high gas prices are pushing workers to stay at home.

■Companies are starting to see remote work as an advantage.

■New technology will make virtual conferencing more effective.

■Employees can log on from home and maintain productivity.

Market Performance - Fortune 500 companies are becoming more open to remote work.

■JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs are allowing remote work on match days during the World Cup.

■The American economy is exploring the advantages of remote work.

The markets are recognizing the flexibility and advantages of remote work. This situation can help increase productivity and employee satisfaction, especially for large companies. The future of remote work will be a reality created by companies and employees working together.