Bloomberg has reported that Rockstar, the studio behind the video game series GTA is making their workforce go back to full time office working. No more hybrid or remote working. They say there are "tangible benefits" from in-person work. Other companies are following suit for numerous reasons. I feel this is going to have an undesirable impact on the employees forced to go back into the office - Here’s Why.
Rockstar has had a spate of leaks recently and that in part could be attributed to the fact that people are working away from the office so sensitive materials are at risk of being leaked. It makes sense to keep your valuable IP locked up in an office where you have more security. Other companies say that their culture is stronger with office working or communication is easier. However, while Rockstar may see this move as a security measure, the impact on employee wellbeing cannot be overlooked. The shift back to full-time office work not only disrupts the newfound balance and flexibility that many employees have come to love but also disregards the mounting evidence that remote or hybrid working arrangements can actually enhance productivity and accessibility.
A recent report from the Wellbeing Research Centre has underscored the importance of organisational-level changes in improving workplace wellbeing. It's not just about providing individual-level mental health interventions like mindfulness or stress management; rather, it's about reshaping the entire work environment to support the diverse needs and preferences of employees. Arguably the biggest preference is around remote, hybrid and office working.
The move by Rockstar and other companies risks alienating employees who have thrived in the flexibility of remote work and may struggle to readjust to the rigidity of office life. I love working in my home office as it makes the school run easier and working while doing household chores actually improves my productivity. If I grind away at the same tasks for too long my productivity drops. As someone with an anxiety disorder, I've only experienced symptoms when working in an office. I’ve never had any symptoms when working remotely.
The decision to prioritise in-person work over remote options also raises important questions about inclusivity and accessibility. For disabled employees or those with caregiving responsibilities, remote work has been a lifeline, offering them the opportunity to contribute without the barriers imposed by traditional office settings.
With the flexibility and improved work-life balance offered by remote or hybrid working, it's essential to consider the time and financial savings for employees. Eliminating the need for daily commutes not only reduces stress but also saves employees valuable time and money. Additionally, remote work empowers employees to choose where they live, allowing them to reside in lower-cost areas away from expensive urban centres. This flexibility is particularly valuable in the current cost of living crisis, where employees seek companies that understand and accommodate their financial needs. Employers who embrace remote work not only attract top talent but also foster a more loyal and satisfied workforce.
The notion that in-person work fosters stronger company culture or facilitates better communication overlooks the reality that effective collaboration can occur in virtual spaces as well. With advancements in technology and communication tools, teams can stay connected and productive regardless of their location. I’ve worked successfully in an international game studio with people all over the globe. It has its challenges but also its strengths. The pool of talent isn’t defined by the location of an office for example.
Ultimately, the push to return to full-time office working represents a missed opportunity for companies to embrace the evolving nature of work and prioritise the wellbeing and autonomy of their employees. Instead of reverting to outdated norms, organisations should embrace changes that support a diverse and inclusive workforce. This means reimagining the workplace not as a physical location but as a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and employee wellbeing, wherever they choose to work. Relying solely on wellness apps or free gym memberships, as some companies may be inclined to do, overlooks the deeper organisational changes needed to truly enhance employee wellbeing, as evidenced by the recent study. Companies must recognize that addressing employee welfare requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond superficial perks and instead focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.
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