Like most important cultural ideas or trends, the idea of going back to the office to be the most effective and efficient after the Covid-19 pandemic is a hot topic of discussion. There are two schools of thought on this subject. Both sides have valid points, and each have dug their heels in to stand their ground. However, as with most things in life, the truth and balance of an issue lies somewhere in the middle.

What do you think of when you hear “middle”? I would suggest it means a compromise.

Change your sweatpants and dust off your slacks

The gap in our thought processes could be generational. We have one group asserting that working in the office is more effective and efficient and another group insisting that they work better from home. Trying to keep an open mind, I think both are right. It should depend on the job itself.

If you are a shop technician that repairs equipment, you must be in the shop to perform your job. If you are a programmer and a quiet space with access to servers is what you need, then working remote makes sense.

Sustaining the culture

There is, however, that little nagging issue of belonging to a bigger purpose. A strong organizational culture is an important aspect of what differentiates you from your competitors. Culture is built as people spend more time together, enhancing their trust and cooperation. There is no substitute for communicating in person. Sure, Zoom calls have its place and does accommodate many needs, but it cannot completely nourish a company’s culture. Let’s exaggerate the point.

What if all you could do with your immediate family is Facetime and email with no direct in-person contact. Would it be a successful family, a family barely functional, or a dysfunctional family? I don’t know the answer, but I would not want to try it.

So, compromise is in order. After all, we are still human and human interaction is the MOST rewarding experience of all.

Where do you stand? Let us know how your organization is handling working in the corporate office versus the home office and leave your comments below.