Do you regularly work from home? The likelihood that the answer to this question is “yes” has increased significantly in recent years. In many companies, employees still work partly from home, when possible, of course. This has sparked a debate about whether or not it would be a good idea to introduce a work-from-home allowance. After all, employers no longer have to reimburse as much in travel expenses now that people are working partly from home, but employees do use more electricity at home!
Working from home part-time is the new norm at many companies
A survey by the employers' association AWVN shows that many employers plan to continue allowing remote work. Nearly all employers offer their staff the option to work from home, and seven out of ten do not plan to require employees to return to the office more often. The survey was conducted among more than 350 employers who are members of the association. The association also reports that half of employees regularly work from home and come to the office an average of three days a week. 94% of employers indicate that working from home is practiced in their company.
Employers are positive about the work-from-home policy
Three out of four employers say they are satisfied with the current balance between working from home and working in the office. However, they do indicate that they would prefer to see the office workload spread out a bit more evenly. Currently, the office is always extremely busy on Tuesdays and Thursdays, while there are often very few people there on the other days. Otherwise, however, employers are very satisfied with how working from home is organized. According to the AWVN, employers are so positive about working from home because, in most cases in the Netherlands, there is good consultation regarding working from home. In addition, many employers see the benefits of working from home, according to the association. Consider, for example, a better work-life balance without negative effects on performance.
Employers provide internet allowance for remote work
The AWVN survey also shows that one in three employers—or 33%—contributes to their employees’ internet costs. This is usually done through a fixed allowance, either as a one-time payment or on a monthly basis. In addition, 37% are considering introducing this policy in the near future. A survey by KPN of more than 300 managers in the Netherlands confirms these figures.
Alternative to the internet allowance for working from home
KPN recently introduced an alternative to the employer’s contribution toward internet costs: Internet van de Zaak. This allows employers to easily determine how much they want to contribute toward their employees’ internet costs. The amount they contribute is automatically deducted from the employee’s monthly bill. Of course, both the employer and the employee must be KPN customers for this to work. Easily arranging financial reimbursement isn’t the only benefit of Internet van de Zaak. Through this subscription, employees also gain access to a comprehensive help desk that offers support beyond just internet connectivity. If something goes wrong with the connection at home, this help desk ensures employees are back online in no time!