The Evolution of Work: Best Practices for Avoiding Social and Organizational Isolation in Telework Employees

Abstract

Background: Research has found that social interaction and the perception of support increases satisfaction. Identifying best practices can give organizations a tool to help avoid isolation in telework employees. The purpose of this research is to identify the best practices for avoiding social and organizational isolation within telework employees. The question guiding this research is: What best practices can organizations implement to preclude telework or remote employees from social and organizational isolation? This paper will review the existing literature via a systematic literature review to explore the best practices for avoiding social and organizational isolation with telework employees to ensure that the telework arrangement is most effective for the employee and employer. This will enable the organization to implement a successful telework program and ensure positive organizational outcomes. Method of Inquiry: The method of inquiry is a Qualitative Systematic Literature Review Data Collection Method: Articles were identified via bibliographic library search and snowball method from a focus article. Data Analysis Method: Data was extracted using thematic coding in 2 cycles via Excel to extract relevant themes from 20 articles chosen. Results: Providing face to face interactions, inclusion in information exchange, and leaders with specialized training will give telework programs some of the tools necessary for avoiding social and organizational isolation among their telework employees. Conclusions: Social and organizational isolation can be avoided or at least minimized by implementing best practices like providing face to face interactions, inclusion in information exchange, and leaders with specialized training.