Is working remotely no longer working?
The year is well on its way again, traffic is back and professionals are braving the highways and byways to get to work… or not?
As we observe the current employment landscape, it’s striking to see that Donald Trump initiated his second term with highly assertive executive orders. One of the most notable changes is the mandate for all Federal employees to return to the office. This shift feels significant, especially considering the remote work practices that had become the norm during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It seems like a turning point, where the focus is moving back towards traditional in-office dynamics.
The decision to end remote work for many employees is part of a broader agenda globally to restore traditional work environments and boost productivity. Some believe that returning to office work will enhance collaboration, improve oversight, and ensure operations run more smoothly. Critics, however, argue that this move could disrupt the work-life balance many employees have come to appreciate and rely on.
The loadshedding challenge in South Africa is another element in the mix which needs be considered. Do we really want to spend long hours in frustrating traffic when working remotely is a possibility? Perhaps we should collectively see how we could stagger traffic by allowing flexible working hours, hybrid working and other innovative working practices.
Case study – One of our clients requires that all staff return to the office in January for a period of three weeks. Productivity benchmarks are set, teams connect with each other, and the organisational vision and goals are reinforced during this time. From February onwards, non-customer facing staff whose jobs don’t require their presence at the office, may work using a hybrid model. One day per week at the office and four days from home. These arrangements are adapted when the teams need to be at the office. This practice works for them. Should productivity decline against the January benchmark, it is investigated and dealt with in an appropriate manner. Most staff are glad not to deal with traffic, out of order traffic lights and long commutes. They subsequently work hard not to sacrifice the hybrid priviledge.
It also needs to be mentioned that many people welcome the return to a more structured work environment and the social aspect of feeling part of a team. Getting the job done in the best way possible, should be the yardstick.
From a business perspective, returning to office work could have several implications. Companies that provide office supplies, furniture, and technology may see an increase in demand as organisations prepare for the influx of employees. Additionally, the commercial real estate market could experience a boost as businesses expand or renovate to accommodate the returning workforce.
However, this policy change also raises questions about the future of remote work in the private sector. Will other companies follow suit? Should we not continue to embrace the flexibility and benefits of remote work? Only time will tell how this shift will influence broader workplace trends.
This leaves me asking many questions, is going back truly beneficial? Is there not a better way that is an amalgamation of both worlds? Are pre-Covid work practices perhaps not outdated given we have younger generations with different work expectations entering the business environment. Although employers’ needs and policies are important, employees want to be heard and consulted.
In conclusion, an exclusive return to the office is a significant development that will have far-reaching effects on operations, employee morale, traffic, effective use of staff’s time and the business landscape. As we watch this transition unfold, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of work globally.
Happy employees generally ensure happy customers! What will make your staff happy to be productive, stay inspired and experience work-life balance? May your decisions be the result of consulting with clients, management and staff – all stakeholders should be involved.
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