Since the pandemic, remote work has become increasingly popular – the sudden surge in its popularity was born out of necessity. Many individuals have now discovered the convenience of working from home, although when thinking of career goals and aspirations alongside business development, “convenience” isn’t a word that’s often sprung to mind.
While working from home is great for some, the traditional office environment still offers a range of benefits that cannot easily be replicated in a remote setting.
Social Interaction and Collaboration
Humans are social creatures, and working in a physical office facilitates face-to-face social interaction. Office spaces allow for spontaneous conversations, brainstorming sessions, and informal interactions.
All of this fosters a sense of creativity and helps to develop strong professional relationships with colleagues, in turn enhancing teamwork. Although it may benefit some, working from home can lead to feelings of isolation and detachment for others.
Professional Development
Office environments can serve as a hub for professional development. Being in close proximity to colleagues and supervisors allows for more immediate feedback and mentoring opportunities.
Working within an office can offer easier access to training sessions, workshops and networking events which can both directly and indirectly enhance careers. While training sessions are also commonly offered remotely, our experience is that a face-to-face environment is always more beneficial to both the student and the tutor.
Access to Resources & Equipment
Offices serve as a dedicated space where people can work and collaborate together. The money invested in these spaces usually includes high-speed internet, common office supplies and tailored technology.
By UK law, employers should ensure that individuals are comfortable in the office, often offering ergonomic furniture and equipment to eliminate the risk of repetitive strain injury, backpain and other common musculoskeletal issues. Throughout the pandemic most people found themselves working from unsuitable areas, without the right equipment.
Structure & Routine
Working in an office often provides a structured routine that can be beneficial for productivity. Set start and end times, as well as scheduled breaks helps employees stay focused and avoid distraction.
Unless you’re lucky enough to have a home office, most find it hard to separate the home environment from their work. Distractions can mount up, leading to a decline in productivity, or on the other hand individuals can find themselves stressed or burnt out, unable to switch off from their job.
Effective Communication
With the rise in popularity of software such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, many assume that effective communication is easy when working from home. Despite the ease of instant messaging, face-to-face interactions are still the most effective way to convey information and develop relationships.
Non-verbal cues, body language and facial expressions play a crucial role in effective communication, which can be much more challenging to replicate in virtual meetings.
Do you agree with us? Let us know in the comments if working from home or the office, and which you prefer and why!
