Is returning to the office actually good for productivity?

The conversation around returning to the office has sparked a lot of debate lately. Amazon recently announced the end of its hybrid work policy and is ordering all staff back into the office five days a week, and they’re not the only ones.

Many companies are weighing up the pros and cons of asking employees to come back to the office full-time. But is this really the best move for productivity?

Some employees thrive in a structured office environment.Credit: Getty Images

On one side, many argue that being physically present in the office boosts productivity. Think about those spontaneous conversations that happen in the kitchen or during a coffee run. These casual interactions often lead to deeper connections and innovative ideas that might never surface in a Zoom meeting. Many companies are also moving towards open office designs to further foster collaboration among their teams.

Moreover, some employees thrive in a structured office environment. For those who struggle with distractions at home, such as the temptation of doing a quick load of laundry between meetings or having the TV on in the background, the office can provide the focus they need.

Not only this, but getting into the routine of commuting and having a dedicated workspace can help maintain clear boundaries between work and home life and mitigate burnout.

But let’s not overlook the incredible benefits of remote work. Many employees report fewer distractions at home, leading to increased focus and efficiency. Working remotely also gives workers more flexibility, bringing a better work-life balance, motivation and overall job satisfaction.

The environmental impact of returning to the office full-time is also worth mentioning.

A survey by Buffer revealed that 71 per cent of respondents agree that flexible working hours contribute to a healthy work-life balance. That kind of autonomy can significantly affect how engaged employees feel in their work.

Diversity and talent acquisition also come into play when discussing the remote versus in-office debate. Companies are no longer limited to hiring talent from a specific geographic area. This shift allows organisations to tap into a broader, more diverse talent pool that enhances creativity and also helps to build a more inclusive culture.

Mental health is another critical aspect of this conversation. The pandemic brought mental health to the forefront, and many employees are looking for more flexibility in their work arrangements. The daily commute to the office, with its associated stressors, can take a toll on one’s mental health.

Remote workers can use this commute time instead to relax and unwind, reducing stress levels and mental wellbeing. On the other hand, remote work can also lead to increased isolation and loneliness, missing the social interactions gained in the office.

The environmental impact of returning to the office full-time is also worth mentioning. Working from home means fewer people are commuting, resulting in fewer carbon emissions.

According to a study conducted in the US by Global Workplace Analytics, if people who have the capacity to work from home did so just half the time, it could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 54 million tons a year. That’s a significant number, and it aligns well with the growing emphasis on sustainability.

What’s the best path forward? Rather than forcing a full return to the office, many experts recommend a hybrid model that combines the best of both worlds. This approach allows employees to benefit from in-person collaboration while also enjoying the flexibility of remote work.

Whether returning to the office enhances productivity doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. Each company and employee has unique needs and preferences. By fostering a flexible work culture that emphasises collaboration, wellbeing and creativity, companies can adapt to the evolving nature of work.

As we move forward, it’s crucial to listen to employee feedback and find a balance that promotes productivity while also respecting individual preferences. The future of work is about choice and adaptability, and that’s where we’ll find the most success.

Tea Angelos is an entrepreneur, author, speaker and founder of Smart Women Society, an online education company providing innovative products and tools for women to grow their independence with money, career, wellbeing and love.

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