Teleworking offers advantages for both men and women, but women may benefit more in certain cases. This is due to societal role distributions, the balance between work and private life, and the way women and men handle flexibility. Traditionally, women often have dual responsibilities, combining paid work with unpaid care duties such as household chores and caring for children or other family members. Teleworking helps them balance these responsibilities more effectively.
More flexibility for care tasks
Women worldwide spend more time on unpaid care tasks than men. This means they often face significant challenges in balancing professional commitments with household and caregiving duties. Teleworking allows them to distribute work tasks more efficiently throughout the day, making it easier to take children to school, prepare meals, or provide caregiving without reducing productivity. The time normally spent commuting can be used for these responsibilities, reducing stress.
Less burden from the “double shift”
Many women experience a “double shift”: after a day at the office, they start a second shift at home filled with household and caregiving tasks. This often leads to exhaustion and stress. Teleworking reduces this burden, as women can handle some household chores, such as doing laundry or cooking, during the day. This leaves more time in the evening for relaxation or family.
Greater autonomy over work hours
A key advantage of teleworking is flexibility in working hours. Women can adapt their work schedules to fit their family situations. They can work while their children are at school or in the evening when the household is quieter. This autonomy contributes to a better work-life balance and increases productivity.
Less exposure to gender stereotypes
Gender stereotypes still play a role in the workplace. Women are sometimes taken less seriously in meetings or overlooked for promotions. By working from home, they can focus more on their performance without distractions from office politics or subtle forms of discrimination. They are evaluated based on output rather than presence.
More opportunities for personal and professional growth
Teleworking allows women to manage their time more efficiently, making it easier to take courses or network through online platforms. This increases their chances of career development and promotions without compromising their family responsibilities.
Differences with men in teleworking
Men generally experience less pressure to balance caregiving and work, so teleworking has less impact on their work-life balance. Additionally, men tend to benefit more from informal networking opportunities at the office, which are crucial for career advancement.
Although teleworking does not completely eliminate gender inequality, it gives women more control over their time, work, and private life. This not only helps reduce stress but also enhances their career prospects.
