Absence makes the team uneasy

E-mail, Blackberries and cell phones were all designed to keep the world in touch. But when it comes to the workplace, contrary to popular belief, employees don’t relish time away from their bosses, according to new survey results.

Nearly half (48 percent) of the workers polled by an independent research firm said their jobs would be tougher if they did not work in the same office as their supervisors. In fact, of this group, 27 percent felt it would be much more difficult.

Similarly, 58 percent of the managers surveyed said it is important that all staff members work in the same location.

OfficeTeam, a staff service specializing in the placement of administrative professionals, developed the survey. The research firm contracted to conduct the survey based its findings on telephone interviews with 492 workers age 18 or older and employed in an office environment. A second round of phone interviews was conducted with 150 senior executives from the largest U.S. companies.

Employees were asked, “In your opinion, would it make your job easier or more difficult if you reported to a manager who didn’t work in the same location as you?” Their responses:

Much more difficult … 27%

Somewhat more difficult … 21%

Neither easier nor more difficult … 26%

Somewhat easier … 13%

Much easier … 8%

Don’t know … 5%

Executives were asked, “How important is it for all of the members of your department to work from the same location?” Their responses:

Very important … 13%

Somewhat important …45%

Somewhat unimportant … 29%

Not important … 12%

(Responses do not add to 100 percent due to rounding.)

“Technological advances and global expansion have made it more common and acceptable for people to work remotely,” said Dave Willmer, executive director of OfficeTeam. “In some instances, it’s hard to avoid.”

At issue, however, is the communication challenges such arrangements create. “Those who work outside the office must go the extra mile to make sure they keep the lines of communication open,” he said.

So, what can a professional do to ensure they stay connected? OfficeTeam offers the following tips:

• Provide frequent status reports. Establish a schedule for giving updates to your supervisor so he is aware of your workload. At a minimum, Willmer suggests a weekly report detailing tasks completed and in progress be provided.

• Pick up the phone. E-mail can be an effective communication method, but using the phone can sometimes be more efficient and help strengthen office ties.

• Highlight your accomplishments. Don’t be afraid to toot your own horn to ensure you get proper credit for your achievements.

• Meet face to face. Take advantage of all opportunities to meet in person with your boss and colleagues. These discussions are imperative to stay connected, avoid miscommunication and to make sure you stay in the loop when desirable projects and promotions come around.