With the end of the pandemic, companies are slowly considering returning to full-office operations. While some organisations now include remote work in their operations, most believe a hybrid model, combining remote and office work, is more beneficial for the organization. Employees, meanwhile, are divided over the issue. Some have embraced the benefits of remote working, while others understand the shift.
This hybrid model could be a compromise, allowing for the benefits of both remote and office work.
But why are companies now pushing for a total return to the office? Is there a valid reason for it? Here are the notable reasons why they are advocating it:
It Boosts Company Culture And Teamwork
In the office, it is much easier for employees to build teamwork because they can see each other up close and schedule meetings regularly compared to remote work. As these meetings occur, employees will be more productive and build strong relationships that will make the workplace more inclusive.
It Is Better For Mentorship And Development
In-person meetings and interactions play a crucial role in employees’ skill development and learning real-world applications directly from their senior peers. This reassures the audience about the value of in-person interactions in fostering mentorship and development.
It Can Trigger Better Collaboration
With the team in the office, interactions can easily trigger better collaboration. Ideas will be transmitted between each member in real time, and brainstorming sessions will be promptly scheduled. In virtual workspaces, there may be delays in how ideas are communicated, and not everyone may be online to discuss these ideas.
It Promotes A Positive Work Culture
Since your team can connect more easily while in the office, it can foster a positive work culture and promote loyalty; people will feel more connected to the team and like they belong. Once they have this sentiment, they will be more engaged and do well.
There Is A Better Work-Life Balance
Working in the office can also help some employees separate their personal and professional lives and achieve work-life balance. Since their workplace is far from home, it will be easier for them to switch their focus between work and personal life.
Returning To The Office Also Helps With Compliance, Ensuring That Your Company Meets Its Legal Obligations
This emphasis on compliance can make the audience feel secure and confident in their decision to return to the office.
Depending on the company in question, having a return to office is a part of their obligations under the law. Industries like manufacturing, healthcare and hospitality require employees to be at the office to complete their tasks.
If you are a business or company thinking of asking your employees to return to work, it is a decision that must be reviewed carefully before letting the team know. Each employee must also be given advance notice so they can take the time to understand the reasons for the request and see if compromises can be made. No matter which steps you wish to take, it is essential that the transition process is timely and that all employees must be supported to make it a successful shift for your company. It’s also crucial to ensure that the return to the office is done in a safe and healthy manner, following all the necessary guidelines and protocols to protect the well-being of your employees.
It takes time and experience to look at different angles at a problem. Here are some of my best articles:
Lockdown from Covid-19: From an Expat’s Point of View
Breaking Complacency, Conquering My Fear and Pushing My Own Limitations
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