Can we just stop with the types of articles and agree that everyone is different and that the best strategy is to provide flexibility for employees?
Where I work, employees can work from home or in the office, THEIR choice. There are no mandates. As long as you’re getting done what you need to get done, no one really cares where you do it.
I know several who thrive in an office environment and that is where they are most productive. I’m a Director and for me, I am far more productive at home because I have fewer distractions and without the commute I can start work earlier and get a lot done while I’m my most productive then end my day earlier. and enjoy my afternoon. I still do 1 on 1’s and various team activities but a big part of my job requires focus which was nigh impossible in the office.
I also have been in far better shape mentally and physically. I no longer have the stress of a 1 hour commute (each way), sometimes 2 hours coming home due to traffic. And I am in better physical health than I’ve been in a decade because I can cook a healthy lunch and not rushing for dinner whereas in the office we ended up eating at restaurants or fast food. I can make better healthy choices. The extra time I have because of no commutes has allowed me to take up cycling which has done wonders for my physical and mental wellbeing.
Now, I know everyone isn’t like me and different people have different challenges but it’s the CHOICE for employees that is so powerful.
Lastly, from a company standpoint, I love my job and I love where I work, the extra flexibility just makes me want to stay that much more.
To quote Michael Gary Scott: “It’s a win-win-win!”