To office, or not to office. That is the question.
But it’s a silly question.
Let’s start with the fact that it is binary.
If you listen or read anything on the issue, it’s an either-or proposition. There are only 2 answers available.
We know of at least 3, right? Office, Remote, Hybrid.
But even within those 3 choices, there are more choices available.
Can people be productive, ingrained in the culture, growth and business focused while working from home? Of course! Many employees have been doing it well for years. Heck, many did it effectively BEFORE March 2020.
Does the office have some advantages for growth, connection, building deep relationships, and the occasional ah-ha moment at the water cooler? Sure. I know many who have made deep, lasting friendships, and even marriages, that have come out of the office. Good work can be done at the office.
Are there challenges to both?
Yes. You can name a dozen for each.
If you’re worried about your team actually working, then you don’t have an office problem, you have a people problem, starting with your leaders.
The question you should be asking is, “what is the best way for US to approach this?”
Stop listening to the pundits (including me), billionaires with rocket ships, and most of all commercial real estate agents, and listen to your employees, your leaders, and your clients. Work to get past the Win-Lose and find the way forward together.
Is there a WIN-WIN-WIN? Can you find it as a team?
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