There are cases where employees work overtime when they do so remotely. This became clear after the Bulgarian Industrial Association in partnership with BAPM conducted a study, which Maria Mincheva, Deputy Chairman of BIA, commented on "Business Start" by Jivka Popatanasova.
"50% of the respondents disagreed with the statement, but 28% of them claimed with certainty that their workload increased. This problem at large stems from the fact that the remote form of work did not happen voluntarily. I think this wouldn't have been a problem would if the employee had initiated this way of working. However, this was not possible. One is not inclined to work from home, but rather rest and do housework.
Teleworking has been regulated in our legislation since 2011. With the introduction of the measures, this voluntary form of work organization became mandatory. On the one hand, it saved jobs and people received their income, and it allowed employers to continue operating.
"Recently, more and more questions arose: 'Do we have the right to take a lunch break?'; "What are my working hours?", "Are we working more?" - This helped us identify the practical application of it a year after its implementation.
The survey shows a trend in the increase of the share of this type of work organization, Maria Mincheva said. Some companies have adopted a mixed way - part of the team to work from home and the rest are in office. There is another option. On certain days of the week, people work remotely, and on others, they visit their offices.
"The data show that after the declaration of the state of emergency, 56% of the companies have switched to this type of mixed work. This allows much more flexibility attracting more young employees looking for independence. For many companies, this is a way to attract young talent and become more attractive as employers. “
When it comes to the benefits of the employer, we note the reduction in the overhead costs. Many people want to work on their personal computer, for example, but it depends on the type of activity they carry out.
"Those who do not have a personal computer, should not be forced to buy one - the employer must provide them. However, if we're talking about the IT business, you do require certain parameters, and then the employer has an interest in ensuring the protection of information. "
The only change in the labor code, Maria Mincheva added, is that this voluntary organization of work has become mandatory.
"Economic and social measures are coming to an end, and measures in support of business and employment must not be stopped abruptly, a risk we are currently witnessing. It is important to consider extending the measures as long as possible so that companies can gradually return to their normal activities. "
The guest also commented on the business's expectations of the temporary government.
