Before 2020 happened, remote work wasn’t a widespread practice. However, after the onslaught of the pandemic, employers everywhere opted for remote work for safety reasons. As things return to normal, some of these employers have considered staying remote or adapting a more hybrid approach. The hybrid system allows people to work from home and in the office. However, other employers decided when to return to the office.
While some employees and employers found some benefits in remaining remote, there are many perks from working from an office that shouldn’t be discounted (even if adapting a hybrid model). Having an actual physical office to come to can be an asset to employees and employers alike, so we can understand why some employers decide that a fully remote office isn’t ideal ongoing.
Here are some of the top benefits:
It Builds Community and Collaboration
One of the biggest benefits of working in an office is community and collaboration. When you work from home, you’re often isolated (and if you’re not isolated, you’re distracted by loved ones). Having some alone time can be good for your well-being, but too much can stir feelings of loneliness. People need to have connections.
When people work in an office, they have a team of people around them working for the same purpose. They can share stories, gain feedback and discuss future goals. It allows for easier collaboration. It’s not always easy to collaborate over email or even video calls. In-person allows for a more collaborative meeting. Video calls may seem like the answer to this, but they can be distracting.
Have you ever caught yourself looking at your picture during a call? You’re not the only one. People can often notice how they look on camera, distracting them from what’s going on in the meeting. It can also make people more self-conscience. But, in person, people are more likely to focus on what’s happening in the meeting and on other people. This creates a more collaborative and productive experience. You also don’t have to worry about tech glitches!
Working in an office also creates more commanderies. Employees can get to know one another better as well as their managers. If employees have questions, they may be more likely to ask them to their coworkers or supervisors since they’re seeing them face-to-face.
The office experience can bring people together and motivate them to work as a team. People often feel like they’re a part of something greater when working alongside other people to meet the same goals.
When people are face-to-face, it can also improve brain function because there will be more conversations. When people converse, they practice active listening and communication skills. They also learn from each other.
This collaboration and community can boost creative thinking and productivity overall. Of course, this is good for employers and employees. But being together isn’t the only perk.
It Can Reduce Pain and Increase Physical Movement
Many working in an office experience chronic pain because of lack of movement and the wrong setup. Those working from home tend to experience this even more. People don’t always have the best arrangement at home. They sometimes work from coffee tables, dining tables, and even in their beds. If they have a desk, it’s not always set up ergonomically.
This can result in more neck pain, back pain and more. People working from home may not be motivated to move as often either. However, when they work in an office, they’re at least forced to walk from the car to the office. They may even have the option to take the stairs over the elevator or take walking breaks. At home, it’s easier to get into bad habits that can lead to less movement and more pain.
It Can Improve Work-Life Balance
It isn’t easy to separate personal life from work when you do your job at home. However, when employees have somewhere to go during the day, they can keep their work there and better separate it from their home life.
It Can Remove Distractions
Of course, there are bound to be some distractions no matter where you work, in the office or at home. But usually, the distractions at work are work-related or are helping to build more community amongst coworkers, so these distractions can be more fruitful for the work environment. However, there can be other distractions from loved ones, drop-ins, and the internet at home. Sure, employees have access to the internet at work, but at home, there’s more free reign to stream shows or get lost on Google, etc.
Overall, working in an office can provide a lot of perks for both employers and employees. Even if you’re not going back entirely, we’d suggest at least going hybrid!
There are plenty of great options available too, and at PMI, we can help you find the one that works best for you. When you choose a property managed by PMI, the added perk is that you can expect excellence. Visit our website to learn more: (801) 477-8556.
