Job Satisfaction and Remote Work: How to Increase Job Satisfaction Within Remote Work Structures

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Remote working influences job satisfaction. Working remotely offers benefits such as increased flexibility, improved work–life balance, reduction of commuting and overheads for employers, and increased productivity and wider skill base for employers. Various factors influence job satisfaction within remove work settings. These factors can be divided into social factors, including isolation and co-worker relationships; job-design factors, including career advancement, mentoring and management, and intensification of work; and psychological factors, such as mental health and personality. To accomplish a satisfactory work environment for remote workers, the management can provide emotional support for the employees, clear task-related goals, clear work–life boundaries, training in how to work remotely effectively, and occasional meetings in person. The literature recommends not entirely eliminating personal contact, as such contact can mitigate problematic factors such as social isolation and mental health issues. Personal contact can be maintained by hosting face-to-face meetings at certain times or simply adjusting the frequency of remote work. To maintain the satisfaction of employees, check- in meetings are recommended for managers to see how employees are feeling. Other helpful tools include virtual encounters, team events, and an environment where employees feel safe to request support and develop within their roles regardless of where they work. Thus, job satisfaction in remote work structures depends on the individual expectations, needs, and perceptions. Many of the measures and tools discussed in this thesis can contribute to increased employee satisfaction. Nevertheless, it is important to understand that individuals need to be addressed in a tailored way. With the appropriate measures and adequate communication, employee satisfaction can be maintained and even raised in remote work settings.