5 Benefits of Returning to the Office

Over the last several years, working remotely has become the norm, largely out of necessity, for companies around the world. But with the pandemic largely in the rearview mirror, I’m seeing huge workplace productivity benefits as employees transition back to the office.

True collaboration — the kind that sparks creativity, triggers innovation, and thrives in an environment of face-to-face dialogue — is the lifeblood of any successful business. As we welcome our associates back, we see this move is igniting a new wave of energy and productivity.

In the Office: 5 Key Benefits

I’ve identified five key benefits of associates returning to the office as I visit company operations across the globe. Find the full article on Yahoo! Finance.

1. Enhanced collaboration
2. Relationship building
3. Vibrant company culture
4. Mentorship and learning opportunities
5. Increased employee engagement

Our office space is designed to foster spontaneous brainstorming, quick problem-solving discussions, and real-time feedback. Those interactions are critical to driving innovation. That happens more naturally when we’re back in pre-pandemic work settings.

By working together physically, I see stronger relationships forged, which leads to improved teamwork and communication. Our on-site activities, celebrations, and routines are instrumental in creating a sense of belonging and shared values. These do much to reinforce our strong company culture.

Moreover, the office environment provides a fertile ground for mentorship and learning, with less-experienced employees gaining invaluable insights from seasoned colleagues.

That kind of connection is valuable, especially for younger workers who are looking at short- and long-term benefits for their own careers.

📖 Further Reading: I shared more on the topic in this LinkedIn article

As I write in my book, All the Right Reasons, having interacted with thousands of people during my career, I have come to realize that the best, most authentic relationship-building experiences happen when you’re sitting kneecap to kneecap with someone, looking each other in the eye, and sincerely wanting to understand. Facebook, Instagram, email, Skype, and other forms of electronic media are great for communicating and connecting across distances, but face-to-face meetings lead to solid business partnerships and long-term relationships.

These are the meaningful relationships that help grow a business. They foster trust, build bridges, and help us manage conflict from a position of mutual understanding. With all of its incredible benefits, technology can’t replace the power of face-to-face communication.

Best of All: Increased Engagement

Being physically present in the office helps to foster a sense of community and shared purpose. It boosts employee satisfaction and productivity. It’s like a party with good friends that you don’t want to miss out on.

I shared these thoughts in a news release that went out on Oct. 2, 2023. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, which is available on Amazon, uncovers 12 principles for living a life in harmony and drawing on the power of values to help find life’s success secrets. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.