Working from home has proven to be a boon for many employees, offering flexibility, increased productivity, and improved work-life balance. Despite the pandemic-induced shift to remote work, many companies are now pushing to return to the office. This move seems to be driven more by a desire for control than by any proven benefits of office work.
Studies show that remote work increases productivity, with employees working an average of 1.4 more days per month than their office-based counterparts. This equates to nearly 17 additional workdays a year. Remote workers also report improved mental health and a better work-life balance.
Yet, some bosses are keen to return to the office, citing concerns about company culture and collaboration. However, these worries are often unfounded, as technology allows for effective communication and collaboration from afar.
The push for office-based work seems to be more about control than productivity. Many managers are uncomfortable with the lack of oversight that remote work entails. It’s a shift in power dynamics, with employees gaining more control over their work environment.
The future of work is likely to be a hybrid model, combining the benefits of both office and remote work. This approach respects employees’ desire for flexibility, while also addressing managers’ need for control. It’s a win-win situation that could revolutionise the way we work.
Go to source article: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2021/07/work-from-home-benefits/619597/