Why Higher Ed Leaders Fear Remote Work: Dispelling Myths to Retain Our Talented Teams

Since the pandemic, I’ve read so many articles about the work-from-home vs. bring-everyone-back-to-the-office debate. A lot of the arguments center around productivity, perceptions (and sometimes myths) about the effectiveness of in-person oversight of employees, and beliefs about the value of serendipitous connections that happen when we are all in the same building (or on the same campus).

Yes, in some situations, we absolutely must be on campus to connect with the students who are on campus. But in many cases, we have so much flexibility -- if we're willing, as leaders, to consider and create new systems -- so everyone can thrive!

In higher education, we’re witnessing a loss of talented, skilled, creative, and committed employees – because too many institutions insist on a “bring-everyone-back-to-the office” stance. We’re losing talented individuals. Every day.

Academic advisors, librarians, academic leaders, instructional designers, directors, faculty, and deans have realized they can work remotely for online universities, for the same (or better!) pay. They’ve traded in long commutes and rigid schedules for no commuting costs and the flexibility to pick their sick child up at school when needed. Others have discovered that their educational expertise and skillsets translate seamlessly to corporate roles or consulting opportunities, where the compensation aligns better with their level of expertise and education.

They’re leaving higher ed. And with them, they’re taking their institutional knowledge, expertise, resiliency (they survived the pandemic with you!), innovation, and their passion for higher education.

It’s time to rethink our work systems and explore new approaches to how we work together.

I hope you’ll join me for a 3-part series:

Unlocking Productivity and Wellness in Higher Ed: Surprising Benefits of Remote Work

I’ll explore the myths surrounding remote work, share my personal journey to remote work, and discuss strategies for creating work systems where everyone can thrive.