I work in finance and we have been WFH for the majority of the last two years. There was a short stint last summer we went back in to a hybrid schedule until surprise Covid numbers spiked and they sent us home again. Now because cases are declining we are going back next week.
I personally hate working in an office. I see no point to it and it’s giving me anxiety just the thought of returning even a few days. The commute, the mindless chatter, the grey cubicles and fluorescent lights.. Our productivity was the highest its been when we were fully remote, we’ve outgrown the office during the pandemic so we now have to share desks on a staggered schedule so I don’t even sit with my team when Im there. Plus on a personal note my wife has developed physical disabilities and needs my help so working remotely has been a gift. I spoke with HR about this and they basically said in a lot of words sorry but there’s nothing we can do for you. Yes there literally is, just let me keep doing what I’ve been doing successfully for the last two years. My last review was great what exactly is the problem? Oh right you want total control. Im waiting on my year end bonus to come in and I think Im done.
The office world has changed, people deserve a better work life balance so give your employees the choice where they prefer to work. It’s 2022, technology exists stop trying to work like it’s still 1950. Either companies embrace this concept or be left behind begging for replacements for all the employees jumping ship for something better.