Frequently, we’ve been hearing about companies restricting work from home or even eliminating the option. 🏡❌
Among the most recent examples is Zoom – a company that became a symbol of #remotework. And although Zoom claimed earlier that remote work would be effective indefinitely and that they want to “hire the best talent, regardless of location”, the company changed their approach [1].
Big tech corporations like Amazon and Facebook also push their employees to spend more than 50% working time at the offices. And probably everyone has heard about Elon Musk’s intolerance of remote work at his companies.
Now there’s some scientific evidence for some skepticism regarding remote work. 🤓📝
According to a study conducted by MIT and UCLA researchers, remote work decreases productivity by up to 18% [2]. Socialization with colleagues and better communication are usually mentioned by the workers among the major pros of #officework.
However, there’s also an individual #wellbeing dimension. ⚖️🧘
Remote work advocates point to wasted time and costs while commuting, more autonomy, and a bigger work-life balance. While staying at the office, introverts might get tired of constant interactions, and more sensitive people might get headaches, elevated blood pressure, fatigue, or other health issues from the constant background noise [3].
It seems there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution – and that companies might be more flexible when implementing the policies rather than strictly pushing employees to come back to the offices.
[1] Sherman, N. (2023, August 7). Zoom orders workers back to the office. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/business-66432173
[2] Varanasi, L. (2023, August 8). Return-to-office mandates just got another vote in their favor: A new study says WFH results in 18% less productivity. Business Insider. https://www.businessinsider.com/wfh-work-from-home-decreases-productivity-18-percent-study-rto-2023-8
[3] Better Health Channel (2023). Workplace safety - noise pollution. Victoria State Government. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/workplace-safety-noise-pollution