It’s been a while since we all were mandated to stay at home during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Since then, many companies issued return-to-work notices. Other companies have left remote work an option for employees, with some only requiring a few days in the office. Employees may have the ability to choose their hybrid schedule. This begs the question, should you get back to the office? If you don’t, you may be hurting your career. Here are 7 reasons that you need to return to the office.
1. Show Your Productivity
Some managers are more comfortable leading by proximity. If you return to the office, you are better able to demonstrate to them your productivity during the day. Some people find that they are more productive in an office anyway. Others prefer the flexibility of working at home.
2. Contribute to Company Culture
Working in an office environment can increase your motivation. Of course, there are multiple factors that play into this. A positive office culture and quality of the work environment can either increase or decrease worker motivation. Individual preferences also play a role in motivation. However, if you have strong relationships with co-workers, this can help increase your motivation in the office.
3. Increase Your Chance of Promotion
If you return to the office, you are more accessible to your boss and upper management. You may be more on top of mind when an opportunity for a promotion arises, versus someone who isn’t seen as much because they work remotely. While this may seem unfair, the data also supports it. A ResumeBuilder survey of 1,190 full-time employees “showed employees do pay a professional price for being able to work from home, with remote employees the least likely to get promotions and raises in 2023.”
4. Collaborate with Colleagues
It’s pretty simple, the closer employees are the better they collaborate. If you want to make valuable contributions to your team, you may have to return to the office. The same kind of collaboration can’t be fostered over a computer screen. You’ll establish a better rapport with your co-workers if you return to the office.
5. Show That You’re a Team Player
If you are resistant to returning to work, you could be labeled as not being a team player. Unfortunately, this could hurt your performance. It’s best to not push back too hard about working remotely, and try to meet company guidelines. If not, you could be in danger when it’s time for layoffs or performance reviews.
6. Work-Life Balance
Believe it or not, some employees feel like they have a better work-life balance when they go into the office. Many say that they are able to leave work at the office and enjoy their time at home more. Of course, those who have a long commute say that they are happier when they are working remotely. Again, it all depends on how you work best.
7. Mentorship
If you return to work, you have better opportunities for mentorship. It’s much easier to cultivate relationships in person and find potential mentors. Especially for young professionals, the opportunity to be in an office with others is vital for professional growth. Many young professionals don’t know what it’s like to work in an office at all. Having this experience is an essential life skill.
Returning to The Office
Returning to the office may be a personal choice, but depending on the company it could be vital for your career. You don’t want to jeopardize your current job or your opportunity for advancement. Have you returned to work or are you still working remotely?