Working from home vs working in an office
As lockdown in the UK continues to ease, and furlough and return to work rules are starting to shift, businesses are phasing in back-to-work plans. Working from home has been embraced country-wide, but many firms are keen to return to some degree of normality, whilst others are noticeably changing their working practices and adapting spaces within the UK government and HSE guidelines. What affect will the changes have on you?
The adoption of working from home for all but essential staff has been received with mixed feelings. There are the obvious benefits, such as time and money saved on commuting and a widely reported upturn in productivity. But many people miss office life, the camaraderie and support of colleagues and the routine of physically going somewhere. Working from home can be a solitary experience as well as a juggle with other family members and commitments. It can be difficult existing in the same environment day in, day out.
Two major companies, Facebook and Google, have extended their working from home timetable for the majority of employees until 2021. Those whose work requires them to physically be in the office will be allowed back in the summer – but the in-office environment and experience will be different, with increased safety precautions.
National law firm, Slater and Gordon, is permanently closing its London office from September 2020, meaning all staff will be permanently at home.
For employees, these are no-choice decisions. They have to remain working from home. How would this make you feel?