Telecommuting has transformed the work landscape. This formula, in which the employee works from their own home, offers multiple benefits, such as greater flexibility, saving time on commuting, and the possibility of better balancing personal and professional life.
However, it also presents some drawbacks, such as isolation and a certain feeling of loneliness. According to data offered by the business consultancy Ringover.es, one in four Spanish workers who telecommute is at risk of social isolation.
Therefore, it is very important to know what the effects of loneliness can be in telecommuting, who may be most affected, and how to try to combat it.
Stress, anxiety, lack of emotional support, and unhealthy habits
The isolation of working from home can cause stress, anxiety, and even depression in the most severe cases. This not only affects the quality of life of workers but also their productivity and ability to concentrate.
When working from home, employees lose some of the emotional support they usually find in their colleagues. In a traditional work environment, sharing concerns, celebrating achievements, and building working relationships provides a sense of belonging that helps manage the emotional pressure of day-to-day work.
Without these interactions, telecommuters may feel that they are facing their professional challenges alone, which increases pressure and exhaustion.
The lack of social interaction associated with remote work limits the ability to build strong relationships. Employees no longer enjoy an environment where personal connections strengthen team cohesion and reduce the feeling of isolation.
Isolation can affect performance, considering that many innovative ideas arise from informal discussions and spontaneous collaborations in the workplace. These types of interactions are difficult to replicate in a virtual environment.
Working from home, with the lack of feedback and direct contact that it implies, can lead employees to feel that their contributions are not recognized or valued, which affects their motivation and commitment to the organization.
Telecommuting is often associated with unhealthy habits, such as a sedentary lifestyle due to the lack of commuting. In addition, stress and anxiety can generate sleep problems or an unbalanced diet. These negative effects accumulate over time, impacting the health of employees.
People most affected by isolation
Not all people experience the effects of telecommuting in the same way. There are certain groups that are more vulnerable to isolation.
Professionals who are new to the organization or who are in the early stages of their career are more dependent on interactions in the workplace to learn about corporate culture and acquire skills. Without these opportunities, they may feel disconnected and less secure about their role in the company.
Extroverted people, who need more social interactions in their day-to-day lives, may experience a feeling of emptiness that will affect both their well-being and their performance in the company.
Those who live alone and those who reside in areas where socialization options are limited may find it even more difficult to alleviate the feeling of isolation.
Tips for not feeling alone if you telecommute
Overcoming isolation requires a comprehensive approach that combines strategies related to work and personal life. The experts at Ringover.es point out the following recommendations that can help you feel more connected and motivated:
Actively participating in virtual meetings with the camera on and participating in group conversations strengthens the sense of belonging to the team.
Create opportunities for social contact by proposing initiatives such as virtual coffees, shared work sessions, or team training activities to break the monotony.
Take work breaks to socialize with informal messages to colleagues or make a quick call and chat about anything beyond work.
Expand your social network outside of work by participating in activities such as workshops or group sports to banish the loneliness associated with telecommuting.
Encourage contact with family and friends through activities or outings with our loved ones allows us to disconnect from work and strengthen personal bonds.
Limit time on social networks, which can accentuate the feeling of isolation, seek professional support if necessary, or use virtual coworking spaces close the battery of tips proposed by Ringover.es.
