The Future of Work: Why Mandating a Return to Office is a Step Backwa

This article is my opinion of what I see and hear every day from friends, coworkers, and family. I am a husband, a father of three kids, and a community leader who knows and understands how our economy and communities work. I also know and understand that doing the same things over and over and expecting a different outcome is insanity. Just because it's been done in the past or this is how we have always done it does not mean we can adjust and change.

As we move forward into the future, our workplaces should reflect our progress, especially after the pandemic. Many companies are pushing for a return to the traditional office setting, but this move feels like a step backward. The benefits of remote and hybrid work are too significant to ignore, especially regarding employee productivity and satisfaction. Plus, there's a lot of pressure from real estate companies and other vested interests wanting to fill their buildings and keep their revenue streams flowing, but do we need to keep building more offices? Here’s a closer look at why sticking with remote and hybrid work is the way forward.

Boosting Employee Productivity

First and foremost, remote and hybrid work setups have been shown to increase employee productivity. Take a look at a study from Stanford University, which found that remote workers are 13% more productive than their office-based peers. People can focus better on their tasks without the daily commute and office distractions. It’s simple: a comfortable work environment means employees can get more done.

Happier Employees

Happy employees are productive employees. Remote work improves work-life balance, leading to happier, more motivated workers. FlexJobs found that 65% of people want to stay remote full-time, and another 31% prefer a hybrid model. This isn’t just about convenience but mental health and overall well-being. Employees who are less stressed and have more control over their schedules are more engaged and effective in their roles.

Lower Turnover Rates

Keeping good employees is crucial for any business, and remote work can help. According to Owl Labs, companies that support remote work have 25% lower employee turnover rates. When people feel their needs and preferences are respected, they’re more likely to stick around. This means businesses save on hiring and training costs and retain valuable institutional knowledge.

Cost Savings

Remote and hybrid work models also save companies money. There are significant reductions in costs for office space, utilities, and other overhead expenses. Global Workplace Analytics estimates that businesses can save about $11,000 per year for each person who works remotely half the time. These savings can be reinvested in areas like employee development or customer service, enhancing the overall business.

Fostering Innovation

Some worry that remote work stifles collaboration and innovation, but that’s not the case. With tools like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams, teams can communicate and collaborate effectively no matter where they are. The flexibility of remote work can lead to more creative solutions, as people aren’t confined to a 9-to-5 schedule and can contribute ideas whenever inspiration strikes.

Real Estate Pressure

One of the biggest pushes for a return to the office comes from the real estate industry. Real estate companies and those in industries that profit from a bustling downtown business district have been vocal about their desire for workers to return. They argue that office buildings are crucial for economic stability, but this stance often overlooks the broader benefits of remote work. For example, office vacancy rates in major cities have spurred real estate firms to pressure corporations to bring employees back. However, this is more about protecting their profits than what’s best for workers and businesses.

Other Pressures and Interests

Beyond real estate, other groups are pushing for a return to the office. public transportation authorities benefit from the daily influx of commuters. Cafes, restaurants, and retail stores in business districts also depend on office workers' foot traffic. While their concerns are valid, they reflect a resistance to adapting to new economic realities. The Guardian and Forbes articles highlight how these interests drive the push to return to traditional office work despite clear evidence that remote work benefits employees and companies.

Real-World Success Stories

Look at companies like Microsoft, Twitter, and Shopify. They’ve embraced flexible work policies, allowing employees to work remotely part or all of the time. These companies report high levels of productivity and employee satisfaction, proving that remote work is not just a passing trend but a viable long-term strategy.

Conclusion

Mandating a return to the office might feel like a return to normalcy, but it’s a step backward. Remote and hybrid work models have proven benefits for productivity, employee satisfaction, and cost savings. Companies can build a more engaged, motivated, and effective workforce by embracing these modern work arrangements. Let’s focus on what works best for employees and businesses rather than clinging to outdated norms or giving in to pressures from the real estate sector and other vested interests. The future of work is flexible, and it’s here to stay.

References

1. Bloom, N., Liang, J., Roberts, J., & Ying, Z. J. (2015). Does working from home work? Evidence

2. FlexJobs. (2021). FlexJobs 2021 survey: Remote work statistics.

3. Owl Labs. (2020). State of remote work report.

4. Global Workplace Analytics & Iometrics. (2020). Work-from-home experience survey.

5. The Guardian. (2023). "Why are offices pushing for a return to office?" [link]

6. Forbes. (2023). "The Real Reason Behind the Push to Return to the Office." [link]