Workplace Flexibility in a Post-Pandemic World: Comparing In-Person vs. Hybrid

Written by Anna Moehn (W’26); Edited by Ria Saraswat (W’25)

As the post-pandemic world continues to grapple with many changes brought about by the remote environment we once lived in, one topic continues to be a discussion hot-button: in-person versus hybrid work. As businesses transition out of this remote environment, many find themselves at a crossroads. Satisfying all employees has proven nearly impossible, especially as many companies cope with the aftermath of the Great Resignation. Still the question remains: 

Should their employees return to the in-person office or should the at-home work days be the new normal?  

A study by Owl Labs’ in 2021 found that 90% of employees working from home are as productive, or in some cases more, than those in the office. On average, employees can work up to an hour more at home than in-person. This extra hour comes from a variety of factors. The commute reduction, flexibility, and cost savings that come from a hybrid schedule has created a more motivated workforce. 

The hybrid schedule has reduced the time, stress, and costs associated with commuting to work. Additionally, the flexibility of this model has allowed employees to structure their workdays around personal commitments, leading to an overall increase in well-being. The costs associated with being in person have also been greatly reduced, as money spent on work attire, gas, general upkeep of buildings, etc, begin to shrink. 

While hybrid work has its benefits, many believe that the advantages of in-person work outweigh the benefits of hybrid work. Company culture, accountability, and collaboration can be an immeasurable benefit to in-person work. 

A physical office where employees can interact with one another allows a company’s culture to flourish. The online aspect becomes difficult when employees are trying to build relationships and connect with their colleagues. Remote employees are more likely to report a poorer work-life balance without the human contact in-person offers. Additionally, because employees are able to establish these relationships, most find it easier to hold their team accountable. Lastly, the ability to have face-to-face collaborations allows employees to have better communication and brainstorming opportunities that remote work lacks. 

In conclusion, the best solution is highly individualized. It isn’t a simple one-size-fits all solution. It will vary based on an individual's personality and work style. Businesses will continue to reevaluate the traditional work models seen pre-pandemic, recognizing that both in-person and hybrid have unique advantages. The companies that will thrive in this new era and see a reversal of the effects of the Great Resignation will be able to leverage these advantages to create a work environment that suits both them and their employees.