The Power of Remote Work: Creating a More Inclusive Workplace

by Angela Donlan

Content Manager

StrongDM

2 min read

Last updated on: May 17, 2023

Found in: Team

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The Power of Remote Work: Creating a More Inclusive Workplace

It’s undeniable: remote work is a catalyst for positive change, bridging gaps, and creating a more equitable and interconnected world. The benefits of remote work are widespread and well-documented. Remote work reduces carbon emissions by minimizing commuting and office-related energy consumption, contributing to a greener and more sustainable planet. It also enables companies to tap into a global talent pool, fostering innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.

But there’s an even more tangible benefit to remote work: remote work environments provide equal access to employment, reduce discrimination, and empower marginalized communities—including those with disabilities and those who are neurodivergent.

At StrongDM, we’ve seen firsthand how remote workplaces foster inclusivity, break barriers, and create a level playing field for people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals. We spoke with Amy Smith, a member of our People Strategy team, who highlighted the positive impact of remote work on accessibility and shared some initiatives StrongDM implements to support employees' unique work environment needs. According to Amy,

"Remote work alleviates some of the barriers to accessibility in traditional workplaces. It allows folks to control their physical and sensory environments and creates opportunities for alternative modes of communication."

Learn more about remote work by reading 11 Surprising Statistics on Remote Work.

Empowering Individuals with Control and Flexibility

Remote work has been a game-changer for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to create a customized work environment that best supports their needs. By eliminating physical barriers, such as inaccessible buildings or transportation challenges, remote work grants individuals the freedom to work comfortably from any location.

Remote work allows individuals to shape their sensory environments, reducing distractions and promoting focus. For people with sensory sensitivities, this control over their surroundings can significantly improve their productivity and overall well-being.

Promoting Alternative Modes of Communication

Communication is critical in any workplace, and remote work opens up new possibilities for fostering inclusive communication practices. Traditional office settings often rely heavily on in-person meetings, which can pose challenges for individuals who face difficulties with social interaction or non-verbal communication. They can also be difficult for people with hearing impairments or motor disabilities.

Remote work allows for diverse modes of communication, including written messages, video calls, and asynchronous collaboration tools. This flexibility empowers individuals to choose the communication methods that suit them best, creating a more inclusive and comfortable work environment.

Supporting Unique Work Environment Needs at StrongDM

StrongDM recognizes the importance of providing support and resources for employees to create an optimal work environment. In addition to working with individuals on accommodations as needed, StrongDM offers all new hires a $2,500 work-from-home stipend.

We encourage employees to use the funds to create a unique work environment that meets their needs—whatever those needs may be. Many use it to purchase ergonomic furniture, upgrade technology, or create a dedicated workspace. By proactively offering these resources, StrongDM ensures that all team members have the tools to thrive and contribute their best work, regardless of their circumstances.

Inclusivity: A Core Value

Inclusivity is a core value for StrongDM, and remote work is one way to foster a more equitable and supportive work environment for our people. We believe remote work environments pave the way for a future where everyone can thrive, irrespective of their unique needs. Technology enables us to design workplaces that empower and value all individuals, and it’s up to us to make it happen. 💪🏽

Want to learn more about our benefits or check if we have any open positions? Visit our Careers page.

About the Author

Angela Donlan, Content Manager, Angela supports the marketing team by developing creative content that helps StrongDM tell its story in creative and authentic ways. Experienced in the advertising agency space and the consulting world, Angela spent her early career years serving as a client-facing writer and project manager for brands large and small. Her specialties range from brand development and strategic campaign planning to social media execution and long-form content production. Angela obtained her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Tulsa. She majored in Marketing and Management and completed minors in Advertising and Communications during her time at TU. To contact Angela, visit her on LinkedIn.

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