Most of us know someone who works from home or in a hybrid model. We might work remotely ourselves. It’s hard to ignore that our work environments are changing, and the hundreds of sources that tell us remote work is beneficial. While the benefits of remote work are being touted, that doesn’t mean working in person or in the office is unfavorable. In fact, an in-office work environment might be more advantageous to our co-workers, employees, and ourselves.
Working in-person fulfills a basic human need.
As humans, we are social creatures. We crave connection. When we are around people who share a similar mission and purpose, we develop a sense of belonging. And when we can see and hear people’s faces and body language in real time, we start to build a level of understanding and trust that cannot be replicated through a screen.
Working in the office is healthy.
Studies show social interaction has actual health benefits, including improvements in mental health. When we are not with each other in person, we face a reduced lifespan and a decrease in our physical health. We share energy with each other when we are together, and we lose that when we’re in and out of Zoom meetings all day.
In-office work is productive.
Working in the same space as others fosters collaboration and innovation. According to the Harvard Business Review, face-to-face meetings are 34 times more successful that conversations through email, and when people share space, they are three times more collaborative and produce greater solutions.
But that’s not all.
When your work environment is also your home, you may feel the need to be “on” 24/7, which can lead to burnout and job dissatisfaction. It has been shown that remote employees often work longer hours. In-person work encourages them to set a routine that helps them manage their time.
Finally, working in the office is beneficial if you’re just starting your career or if you’re looking for recognition and/or a raise. Employers focus on their experiences, as well as what they can see and hear. Being present can help you build your network and be in the minds of your leaders.
Contact RSPR to learn more about our approach.