From the beach to the library: how a freeworking model lets remote employees work anywhere

Length: 4-minute read.

At The Recognition Group, we have fully embraced remote work to better support our team members. We believe in empowering our employees to work in a way that suits them including regularly at the State Library of Queensland (SLQ), as is the case for Sam Lenton, our head of operations.  

The SLQ is a cultural institution located in the heart of Brisbane’s South Bank cultural precinct, providing a range of services to the public, including exhibitions, events, and educational programs. With its stunning architecture, beautiful location overlooking the Brisbane River, and wealth of resources, the SLQ creates the ideal working environment.  

Sam chooses to work at the library to break away from her typical work-from-home (WFH) setup. Every Wednesday, Sam and her daughter, Lizzie, drive from the Gold Coast to Brisbane, where Lizzie is studying at TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus. This regular commute has many advantages. Firstly, driving and parking in Brisbane is cheaper than Lizzie taking the train into TAFE, making it a cost-effective option. Plus, having Sam nearby is a great comfort to Lizzie, as it helps her manage her anxiety by knowing that her mum is close. Additionally, it gives Sam more opportunities to meet up with her Brisbane- and South East Queensland (SEQ)-based colleagues. 

The library provides a friendly atmosphere that is perfect for individuals or smaller groups. Free Wi-Fi is available and there is an onsite café. The presence of people around you can be particularly beneficial, especially after experiencing the prolonged period of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Sam Lenton said, “Libraries are a fantastic option for anyone looking to switch up their workspace. The SLQ is one of my favorite spots. It has a really friendly atmosphere, free Wi-Fi, and an amazing view of the Brisbane River. Even though there are areas where kids can play, there are also quiet zones where I can focus and get work done without any interruptions. The best part is that it's a safe and comfortable environment year-round, with air conditioning in the summer and warmth in the winter. 

One key factor that often concerns people when it comes to remote work is how to stay productive in a different workspace. However, for Sam, staying productive while working from various locations has never been an issue. 

Sam Lenton said, “I've been working remotely for 17 years, and was one of The Recognition Group’s first full-time remote employees, so I'm used to it. When my kids were growing up, they would often have the TV on, so I got used to working with background noise. That's why being in a different environment doesn't really affect me. I'm pretty good at putting my head down and getting work done.” 

At The Recognition Group, we believe that our ‘freeworking’ operating model lets our employees personalise their work environments and ways of working to suit their individual needs. This approach helps our employees to find a comfortable balance between working from home and working in alternative locations, and we’re proud to offer this flexibility to our entire team. To find out more about what it’s like to work at The Recognition Group, get in touch today.