Remote work or office work: where will we work tomorrow?
The question of which working method – remote work or office work- is better is one that concerns many of us today. The answer is not easy, as both models have their advantages and challenges. To bring more clarity to this debate, today we take a look at the results of the latest “Back to Office” study conducted by bilendi on behalf of the KÖNIGSTEINER Group. This study provides exciting insights and revealing trends that are sure to be useful for your own considerations and planning.
The current balance between remote work and office work
The “Back to Office” study shows that many companies are currently pushing for a clear return to face-to-face work. 35% of the employees surveyed report that their employer is actively encouraging staff to return to the office. Over half of those surveyed perceive that their company is showing great interest in increased presence, supported by clear regulations on working from home, which 58% of participants confirm.
Interestingly, a quarter of companies already exclude working from home as an option, while 41% set a fixed quota for home office days. This reflects a clear trend towards more in-person work. However, there are different contexts in which more or fewer days working from home can make sense, depending on the specific requirements and working methods of the company.
The remote work controversy: a look at current debates
The discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of working from home is currently a controversial topic among prominent entrepreneurs such as Wolfgang Grupp and Carsten Maschmeyer. Grupp, head of the textile manufacturer Trigema, is firmly opposed to working from home and sees it as a potential disadvantage for employee productivity and relevance. He argues that employees who are not present in the office could be seen as less important. On the other hand, Carsten Maschmeyer vehemently defends the home office. He sees it as an opportunity to attract skilled workers and argues that the physical distance does not matter as long as the performance is right. Elon Musk has also spoken out against working from home, as he believes that face-to-face interactions are more effective.
Remote work trends: a split opinion
According to a recent survey by the Ifo Institute, 25% of Germans now regularly work from home. The study shows that working from home has become increasingly normal in many industries, particularly in IT and advertising. However, opinions on productivity in the home office are divided. Some studies, such as that conducted by the Hans Böckler Foundation, show that job satisfaction is often higher when working from home, but productivity can vary greatly. More than a third of those surveyed stated that they were less productive at home.
A comparison of remote work and office work
The study of employee satisfaction shows different preferences and effects of the two working models:
Productivity
43% of respondents feel more productive when working in person, while 35% say the same about working from home.
Satisfaction
When working from home, 48% of employees say they are more satisfied, compared to 34% when working in person.
Well-being
56% of employees working from home feel less stressed than 26% when working on site.
The data (“Back to Office” survey) shows that younger employees and those with professional experience often experience greater satisfaction when working from home, while productivity is rated higher in older age groups when working from home.
Recommended actions for companies
The following recommendations for companies can be derived from the study:
Offer flexible remote work options
Even if the trend is increasingly towards working from home, companies should consider flexible home office options. One to two days of home office per week could be a good compromise. However, there are contexts in which more or fewer home office days may make sense, depending on the specific way of working and the requirements of the company.
Clear guidelines and communication
Ensure that all employees are aware of the rules and expectations regarding the hybrid model. Clear guidelines and regular communication are crucial to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth implementation.
Technological support
Invest in the right technology to support hybrid working. This includes video conferencing systems, collaboration tools and a robust IT infrastructure. Ensure that all employees have access to the necessary resources.
Create incentives for office work
Consider how you can make office work more attractive – through allowances for commuting, catering offers or health campaigns.
Rethink office concepts
Make your offices places where people enjoy working and that encourage encounters.
Summary and outlook
In summary, a hybrid working model brings both opportunities and challenges. Organizations should consider flexible working options to meet the needs of their employees while providing clear policies and supporting technology. A strong company culture and a focus on employee wellbeing are critical to the success of a hybrid model.
“Finding the right balance and continuously adapting is key to success in the modern workplace,” emphasizes Alexander Kuttig CEO of Teamfit and Horizon Alpha .
We hope these insights and tips will help you to better master the challenges and opportunities of the modern working world. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us at any time.
