Over the last decade, the workforce has shifted significantly from traditional office setups to remote or hybrid arrangements. This shift accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many individuals working from home. Now, as things gradually return to normality, albeit with some changes, the question arises: Why return to the office?
Remote work undeniably offers convenience, productivity, and improved work-life balance. Employers resisting this trend risk facing challenges in recruiting and retaining talent. However, there are instances where the office environment offers unique advantages that remote work cannot match, making a return to office (RTO) appealing, even temporarily.
For new hires
Joining a new company can be daunting, whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced professional changing jobs. The initial onboarding phase is crucial for understanding company culture, building relationships, and gaining insights. While digital onboarding plays a vital role, being physically present can facilitate smoother integration, especially during the crucial first few weeks.
When seeking promotion
Visibility is key when seeking career progression. Research suggests that being seen by leadership increases one’s chances of recognition. While promotions ideally hinge on merit, proximity bias may inadvertently influence decisions. Regular interaction with leadership in the office can boost visibility and potentially influence promotion opportunities.
During error recovery
Mistakes are inevitable in any career. Addressing them promptly and proactively is crucial for rebuilding trust. Being physically present in the office during such times demonstrates accountability and a commitment to rectifying errors, potentially accelerating the recovery process.
When contemplating career changes
Transitioning between careers involves making important decisions and exploring various paths. Building connections with colleagues from different departments promotes collaboration, sparks new ideas, and creates networking opportunities. While remote work offers flexibility, interacting in person can provide valuable insights for making well-informed career choices.
To facilitate a smooth transition from remote to in-office work, should provide a reason for the change, give employees a say in how the change occurs, create connections between workers and help them solve logistical problems, workplace experts say.
However, there isn’t a universal solution. The need for in-person collaboration varies depending on the industry and role. Some industries prioritise face-to-face teamwork and relationship building, while others may require less physical interaction.
While many organisations recognise the benefits of reuniting employees in person, they employ different strategies to achieve this objective. The key lies in identifying the most effective approach for each individual employer.
