Teleworking: the Salesforce announcement and the future of remote working

You know, I'm super interested in the future of work and am one of those who think that there will be a before and after this crisis regarding remote work. Without saying that everything is perfect in the forced teleworking that many of us have been practicing for months, I think that hybrid with a majority of remote work is a strong trend to watch.

We often take as an example start-ups and small structures for whom “it seems easier” by saying that large-scale remote work is difficult to adapt to large groups. So when I saw the Salesforce announcement I found the Salesforce approach rather interesting.

What are the announcements from Salesforce in terms of teleworking?

In summary:

• Salesforce is moving its 50,000 employees remotely (total or partial)
• 3 modes will be possible: full remote, flex (1 to 3 days on site) and on site (4 days/week)
• 50% of employees confirmed that they wanted to come back on site for a few days/months
• As the presence on site is designed to encourage collaboration and projects, we are killing open spaces in favor of spaces designed to encourage exchange and collaboration
• More fairness with the possibility of recruiting without geographical limits
• More flexible agendas with the end of the day 9-to-5 as they call it Americans

What are the medium-term trends for remote working?

To stay on the theme, I wanted to share with you the thread by Chris Herd who surveyed no less than 1,000 companies over the last 12 months to find out their post-covid plans. The least we can say is that the results are clear:

• The end of Headquarters: the companies surveyed will reduce the space offered in their premises by 50 to 70%
• Most are opting for a predominantly remote formula (3/2 or 4/1)
• Recruitment “without borders” is one of the strong reasons given for full remote
• A reduction in costs is also a point not to be made neglect. A workstation goes from $20,000/year on site to $2,000/year at home.
• Big point of attention on the risks of burnout! Teleworking productivity has exploded but this is not sustainable in the long term and above all risks crushing more than one person. The companies surveyed are aware of this and are seriously considering it.
• Asynchronous work will become a real issue. How do we work effectively if we are no longer all in the famous 9 to 5?
• Explosion of MSDs and other injuries due to inadequate working conditions at home (lack of screen, desk and suitable chairs).