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Market Bytes - November 13, 2024

Finding Balance: The Middle Ground in the Work-from-Home Debate

Learning from History

History shows us that extreme views rarely stand the test of time. Yet, in today’s world, we often find ourselves drawn to polarized stances, and the debate about working from home versus working in the office is no exception. This conversation is particularly fascinating for those of us who’ve questioned traditional business values and rigid workplace norms.

As we gain experience, we realize that meaningful, sustainable changes often emerge from a balance of perspectives. The notion that “all work must be done from the office” has been proven outdated, yet the idea that staff don’t benefit from in-person collaboration overlooks important aspects of workplace culture. The answer, it seems, lies somewhere in the middle.

The Impact of Old-Style Thinking on Talent Attraction

Despite the shift in work practices, many companies remain rooted in traditional, rigid policies, insisting on five-day office attendance—even for roles that are difficult to fill and would clearly benefit from flexibility. This becomes especially challenging for positions in remote areas, where daily commuting time and costs make such requirements unrealistic.

Of course, there are exceptions. Certain industries, such as critical manufacturing, may need on-site staff for practical reasons. However, for most, this old approach falls flat. For instance, we worked with a large company in Kuala Lumpur looking to build a digital tech hub in Petaling Jaya. Despite targeting digital talent who often expect hybrid work, their insistence on a five-day in-office requirement led to 7 out of 8 candidates rejecting the offer. This example highlights the clear shift in market expectations and shows that strict policies can undermine recruitment efforts.

Employers who cling to inflexible models may find themselves at a disadvantage, especially for mid-level roles where hybrid work has become the norm. Offering a small salary increase while demanding full-time office presence simply isn’t competitive; candidates factor in the costs and inconveniences and often decline. Companies hoping to win in today’s talent market need to offer a compelling Employer Value Proposition (EVP) and align with modern expectations.

Embracing the Hybrid Model: A Practical Solution

For many, a hybrid model—where work from home is the default but office attendance is expected for key activities—strikes a realistic and effective balance. Activities like one-on-ones, ideation sessions, and large meetings benefit from the connection of in-person interaction. HR teams are already developing policies to support this model, and it’s rapidly gaining popularity. Ultimately, the question isn’t if remote work is viable, but how we can best support it.

In Office for Newcomers: Building Essential Connections

One point that often holds true is the need for new employees to spend some time in the office. Working alongside experienced colleagues accelerates learning, and the routine of an office setting can offer valuable structure and social interaction for newer team members. However, it’s worth questioning outdated practices: in 2024, do employees need to endure daily one-hour commutes or seek permission for basic personal tasks?

A balanced model should support well-being, allowing employees the flexibility to incorporate personal health practices—like a lunchtime gym session—into their routines, ensuring work truly supports life.

Conclusion: Toward a Balanced Future

Sustainable change lies in finding a balance that respects the benefits of both remote and in-office work. By fostering open dialogue and a flexible approach, companies can create work practices that support productivity, well-being, and a cohesive culture.