Remote Work May Not Be the Only Cause of Worker Productivity Decrease

August 24, 2023
Hall Benefits Law, LLC

According to a recent study based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, American worker productivity has declined for an unprecedented five straight quarters in a row. Remote work critics claim that returning to traditional, in-office work will cure the problem. However, other factors may also contribute to the decline in worker productivity.

First, employers are working longer hours than last year but are less productive than they used to be. Certainly, working from home may cause a drop in productivity as people attempt to juggle work and non-work tasks, such as caring for children or elderly parents. Due to their uncertainty, hybrid work schedules can also be stressful for workers. Companies may not provide enough support for workers to succeed in a hybrid work environment.

A high rate of turnover also can drive lower work productivity. Workers new to their roles will be less productive than those who have served for several years in their roles. People have constantly shifted jobs and sectors since the pandemic, leading to many people in new positions, thus lessening productivity. Layoffs, burnout, and economic uncertainties have contributed to high job turnover rates.

Advances in technology in the workplace also may decrease productivity temporarily as workers adapt to new ways of doing things. Rolling out new methods of handling workloads often takes longer than intended, particularly when problems arise. As workers get up to speed and bugs get worked out, productivity may increase.

HBL has experience in all areas of benefits and employment law, offering a comprehensive solution to all your business benefits and HR/employment needs. We help ensure you are in compliance with the complex requirements of ERISA and the IRS code, as well as those laws that impact you and your employees. Together, we reduce your exposure to potential legal or financial penalties. Learn more by calling 470-571-1007.

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Hall Benefits Law, LLC

HBL offers employers comprehensive legal guidance on benefits in mergers and acquisitions, Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), executive compensation, health and welfare benefits, healthcare reform, and retirement plans. We counsel a wide spectrum of clients including small, mid-sized, and large companies, 401(k) investment advisors, health insurance brokers, accountants, attorneys, and HR consultants, just to name a few. HBL is passionate about advising clients, and we are dedicated to our mission: to provide comprehensive, personalized, and practical ERISA and benefits legal solutions that exceed client expectations.

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