A recent report found that U.S. businesses stand to save over $400 billion annually by implementing virtual work policies. The report, commissioned by Citrix Online and compiled by Telework Research Network, found that by allowing workers to work half of their time at home, employers could save $10,000 per employee in increased productivity, lowered absenteeism, and reduced turnover.

Employers' biggest concern in implementing work-from-home policies is lack of management, but, according to the report, employers can assume a 27 percent increase in productivity on days employees work outside the office.

According to the report, the annual cost per unscheduled absence is $310. By allowing employees to work part of the time from home, employers can trim nearly 4 days of absences per year. Less time in the office means less exposure to stress and sick coworkers.