Unlocking Productivity: Rediscovering the Magic of Working from Office

As the pandemic forced many people to work from home, employers had to quickly adapt to this change and ensure that their employees had the necessary equipment to work remotely. However, this quickly became the “New Normal” and remained a preferred mode of working post pandemic too.

While remote work gave us flexibility, being with colleagues and co-workers in person was like a reunion with that familiar creative energy which was being missed. This became evident in the recent survey of over 1100 professionals on LinkedIn, where surprisingly over 36% preferred being back in office as a preferred mode of working with hybrid work environments being second close. The assumed favourite Work from Home was preferred by only 24%. The “New Normal” is clearly shifting, again!?

Speaking on the factors that could drive this shift, Moonmoon Roy , Head - HR & Associate Senior Vice President at Mahindra Home Finance adds “The office isn't just a physical space; it's a place where connections evolve into collaborations. It's where a lively work family grows, filled with laughter, unplanned chats, and shared meals. This is where strong relationships are formed that go beyond just work tasks. It's like a bond that powers new and innovative ideas. Besides, let's not forget the magnetic pull of the office - a place where ideas flow freely, creativity finds wings, and those sudden "aha" moments push us forward.”?

She adds “At the very core, we all want to feel that 'we belong'. For us, this is not just limited to the corporate offices or the headquarters. The feeling of belongingness must translate to every office space or branch location across multiple cities and towns. Because, for some of us it's not just an office space but a way of living, a way of livelihood and the idea is to ensure they feel the exact same way irrespective of the office or branch location they walk into."

This makes company culture a common thread tying us all together. A strong foundation that is built by each of its team members, reflects brighter when one enters their office space. It is the space where the values & traditions are celebrated, and the stories shared come alive, uniting everyone as an integral part of something larger that extends beyond their individual roles.

While remote work may have been convenient in challenging times, it often lacks the essential element of collaboration. While in an office setting, spontaneous brainstorming sessions, impromptu meetings, and face-to-face communication foster creativity and stronger team dynamics.

Conclusion:

Although the pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, an increasing number of individuals are now recognizing the value of working from the office. Thus, the importance of creating and a nurturing, healthy and collaborative work culture is more critical than ever before. It is essential for organizations and leaders to be able to strike a balance by ensuring that office space remains a vital hub for productivity, creativity, and employee well-being.

As we look back on the time that remote working has offered, let's have a little celebration of this moment – “The Happy Return to Office” moment. It's not just about the walls; it's about coming together, nurturing our work family, and rising together towards a brighter future.