Tools Facilitating Remote Work in the Greek Business Reality and Their Contribution to the Perceived Proximity of the Remote Workers

This paper focuses on COVID-19 pandemic and how this new normal has affected employees in Greece. In particular it explores the benefits and challenges, the engagement and productivity, working conditions and management of remote workers. Most of the existing literature has focused on the employees’ well-being and productivity in remote working settings. However, little have researchers investigated remote working in the Greek business context, including the IT tools used to perform remote work, their contribution in the efficiency and effectiveness of the communication and collaboration of the remote workers and the perceived proximity of the workers in remote working settings. This research aims to address this gap by exploring the effectiveness of the communication and collaboration of remote workers as well as the level of contribution of the technological tools used in building relationships with their colleagues. In addition, it analyzes the perceived benefits and challenges by remote workers concerning this remote working culture and the digital teamwork. Inspired by the evolving landscape of remote work and recognizing gaps in existing research, the study aims to tackle two central research inquiries. The first delves into the IT tools used for effective communication and collaboration in Greek remote working settings. The second query delves into how these tools bridge the gap between the geographical distance and the perceived proximity of the remote workers. To respond to these questions, the author undertakes a literature review across diverse fields including information systems, organizational studies, economics, human resources, sociology, and psychology. Then the author draws on empirical research through the use of qualitative methods and more specifically, semi-structured interviews. The findings show that younger individuals and those with more remote work experience hold more positive views on this working style compared to older generations and people with much experience. Participants in larger cities or different locations from their workplace also express positivity due to time-saving benefits and increased job opportunities. Effective communication and diverse technological tools contribute to overall satisfaction and efficiency in remote work. The research suggests implementing a hybrid work model in Greek organizations to offer flexibility and enhance work-life balance. Other recommendations include increasing face-to-face meetings, providing newcomer support, conducting regular morning team meetings.