such good points! i think you hit the nail right on the head, especially with the "trust in autonomy." it's almost a red flag to me if a company has a full time RTO mandate
So glad it resonated! Yup same on the red flag, it feels like a lack of trust if they go super extreme on all requirements. There should be nuances especially as we are getting back into it!
This is such a thought-provoking post, Jess. I much prefer working remotely. As a highly-sensitive introvert, it allows me to save my energy for the people I love rather than having it drip away during a long commute and mindless office chit chat that energises others but drains me.
Remote work was also crucial for me during periods of ill health. When I wasn't able to manage commuting or office politics, I *was* able to empty my inbox, complete my tasks and attend meetings. Remote work gave me some much needed privacy and autonomy when I was struggling, and made it possible for me to do my job well. I also got promoted during this time, because my former company valued my input and knew that I'd a lot to offer despite my faltering mental health.
We all need to be flexible, of course, and adaptability is the key skill to develop. But like some of the other commenters, I don't think I would want a job where I was required to be in an office 5 days/week.
Clare, thank you so much for sharing part of your personal journey and how it’s shaped your experience with this. So appreciate your perspective and I often think about the toll commuting and socializing takes on introverts I care about. I was so happy to read you had a supportive environment that enabled your best work contributing remotely. Everyone deserves this level of respect and flexibility, and I hope more and more companies will trend in that direction!
A thoughtful analysis of the complexities of return-to-office, I agree with the rebranding that is needed. A clear company mission is better than just "return" to work rules. Have a read at the below article as well. Thanks, Jess. https://substack.com/home/post/p-140606663.
Thank you so much Tinashe! Appreciate your thoughts and that article recommendation. Super interesting and made me chuckle with the imagery of leaders gathering around a dinner table and group texting!
such good points! i think you hit the nail right on the head, especially with the "trust in autonomy." it's almost a red flag to me if a company has a full time RTO mandate
So glad it resonated! Yup same on the red flag, it feels like a lack of trust if they go super extreme on all requirements. There should be nuances especially as we are getting back into it!
This is such a thought-provoking post, Jess. I much prefer working remotely. As a highly-sensitive introvert, it allows me to save my energy for the people I love rather than having it drip away during a long commute and mindless office chit chat that energises others but drains me.
Remote work was also crucial for me during periods of ill health. When I wasn't able to manage commuting or office politics, I *was* able to empty my inbox, complete my tasks and attend meetings. Remote work gave me some much needed privacy and autonomy when I was struggling, and made it possible for me to do my job well. I also got promoted during this time, because my former company valued my input and knew that I'd a lot to offer despite my faltering mental health.
We all need to be flexible, of course, and adaptability is the key skill to develop. But like some of the other commenters, I don't think I would want a job where I was required to be in an office 5 days/week.
Clare, thank you so much for sharing part of your personal journey and how it’s shaped your experience with this. So appreciate your perspective and I often think about the toll commuting and socializing takes on introverts I care about. I was so happy to read you had a supportive environment that enabled your best work contributing remotely. Everyone deserves this level of respect and flexibility, and I hope more and more companies will trend in that direction!
A thoughtful analysis of the complexities of return-to-office, I agree with the rebranding that is needed. A clear company mission is better than just "return" to work rules. Have a read at the below article as well. Thanks, Jess. https://substack.com/home/post/p-140606663.
Thank you so much Tinashe! Appreciate your thoughts and that article recommendation. Super interesting and made me chuckle with the imagery of leaders gathering around a dinner table and group texting!