Over the last few years, remote work has shifted from a rare perk to a standard business model for many companies. For small to mid-sized businesses across New Jersey—and beyond—this change has sparked new questions.
Is remote work truly effective? Does it improve employee satisfaction? And how can businesses maintain productivity while staying connected?
As a local leader in VoIP and business communication solutions, AmeriTel Telephone Systems has seen firsthand how the right technology makes hybrid and remote work more manageable, more secure, and more productive. But tech is only part of the picture. There are broader advantages and challenges of remote work—for both employers and employees—and your communication systems can make or break that experience.
The Case for Remote Work: Why It’s Gaining Ground
A growing body of research confirms what many have suspected: remote work makes people happier. Studies show that employees who work from home at least part of the week report higher levels of job satisfaction, lower stress, and improved work-life balance.
What’s driving that happiness?
- No more commute: In New Jersey, sitting in traffic on the Garden State Parkway or paying tolls on the Turnpike can add hours to the workday. Eliminating that commute not only reduces stress but saves money on gas, tolls, and car maintenance.
- More time for life: Employees can redirect that time into personal activities—whether it’s spending time with family, exercising, or just getting more sleep.
- Control over the workday: Remote work often allows for more flexible schedules. That flexibility means employees can run an errand, manage a school pickup, or take a walk without clock-watching.
- Better focus: Many workers report fewer distractions at home than in an open-plan office, allowing them to concentrate more deeply and accomplish more in less time.
The Employer’s Advantage
Business owners benefit too. For companies in Monmouth or Ocean County—and those operating nationwide—remote work can bring significant returns:
- Increased productivity: Contrary to early fears, many employers have found that remote workers are just as, if not more, productive. When employees are happier, less stressed, and have a more flexible schedule, they often work more efficiently.
- Lower overhead: Fewer people in the office means potential savings on rent, utilities, and office supplies.
- Wider talent pool: Businesses can hire the best people—not just the best people within a 30-mile radius.
- Resilience: Whether due to a snowstorm in Brick Township or a nationwide event, remote capabilities help keep operations going when onsite work isn’t possible.
Not Everyone Wants to Work from Home
Of course, remote work isn’t ideal for everyone. Some employees genuinely enjoy the daily routine of going to the office. For them, the morning drive can feel like a transition ritual—time to mentally prepare for the day ahead. Others like putting on a suit and engaging with colleagues face-to-face. Office culture, banter by the coffee machine, and social dynamics can energize certain personalities.
And let’s not forget: not everyone has a great setup at home. Without a dedicated workspace, remote work can blur the lines between personal and professional life, increasing the risk of burnout.
The Hidden Costs of Remote Work
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. While remote work offers flexibility, it can also introduce new challenges:
- Isolation: Without spontaneous conversations or in-person team lunches, employees may feel disconnected from coworkers and the company culture.
- Overwork: When your office is your kitchen table, it’s harder to “clock out.” That can lead to employees working longer hours and neglecting boundaries.
- Collaboration breakdowns: While remote workers may be more productive individually, teamwork can suffer without the right tools and habits. Miscommunications, delayed responses, and lack of brainstorming sessions can hinder innovation.
Why Communication Systems Matter More Than Ever
This is where companies like AmeriTel come in. Regardless of whether your team is in the office, working from home, or split across multiple locations, staying connected is critical. It’s not just about having a phone line—it’s about building a communication infrastructure that supports flexibility, clarity, and performance.
Here’s how AmeriTel helps:
VoIP Systems for a Mobile Workforce
AmeriTel’s VoIP phone systems include features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, mobile softphone access, and auto attendants—tools that let employees answer calls and communicate just as professionally from home as they would from the office.
No matter where they’re working, your staff can stay reachable and responsive.
Local Support, National Reach
AmeriTel provides installation, training, and support services across New Jersey, with remote service available nationwide. If your team is in Toms River or Tampa, they’ll have access to the same high-quality support.
And because AmeriTel is locally owned and operated in Brick, New Jersey, you can expect personal service that national carriers just can’t match.
Flexible Setup and Maintenance
We know not every office is built the same—and neither are your IT resources. That’s why we work directly with your team (or your IT provider) to configure network wiring, install Yealink IP phones, and get systems up and running smoothly. Ongoing remote support is included free of charge, and we offer 24/7 emergency assistance when it’s needed.
Tools for Teamwork
The AmeriTel customer portal, combined with built-in call queues, ring groups, and reporting tools, makes it easier to manage communication across departments. It ensures teams stay in sync even when they aren’t in the same room.
Striking the Right Balance
So what’s the takeaway for business leaders?
Remote work isn’t a passing trend—it’s a permanent shift in how work gets done. But it’s not about going “all in” on remote or fully returning to the office. The smartest businesses find a middle ground.
Here’s what to consider:
- Survey your team to understand their preferences and working styles.
- Invest in communication tools that support flexibility without sacrificing collaboration.
- Set clear expectations around availability, responsiveness, and work hours to prevent overwork or misalignment.
- Encourage social interaction through virtual check-ins, team meetings, or occasional in-person gatherings.
Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where employees can thrive—wherever they’re located.
AmeriTel: Your Partner for the New World of Work
At AmeriTel Telephone Systems, we help New Jersey businesses embrace the future of work without losing the human touch. When your team is fully remote, back in the office, or somewhere in between, we’ll make sure your phones work seamlessly, your team stays connected, and your customers get the service they expect.
If you’re exploring VoIP phone systems or considering a communication upgrade to better support your remote or hybrid workforce, we’d love to talk.
Let’s build a smarter, more connected workplace—together.