January 14, 2026
The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a rapid transformation in how organizations operate. Almost overnight, offices emptied and remote work became the default. Years later, with the urgency of that shift behind us, many organizations are reassessing the role of the physical workplace. Emerging research suggests that spending time in the office offers tangible benefits, particularly through face-to-face interaction with colleagues, where learning occurs more naturally through observation, spontaneous questions, and informal exchanges (Independent, 2026).
Far from being obsolete, the office continues to offer distinct advantages for both employees and organizations when designed and used intentionally. Revisited with purpose, the office remains a powerful driver of collaboration, performance, and organizational culture.
Mental Health & Social Well-Being
One of the most frequently cited advantages of in-office work is its positive impact on mental health. As noted by Forbes (2023), prolonged remote and hybrid arrangements can intensify feelings of isolation and loneliness for some employees. In contrast, even brief in-person interactions—casual conversations, shared breaks, spontaneous check-ins—can significantly support emotional well-being.
Humans are inherently social, and physical presence helps foster connection, belonging, and a sense of shared purpose. These everyday interactions, while seemingly small, play a critical role in supporting employee resilience and engagement.
Shared Experiences, Stronger Connections & Collaboration
Building on the mental-health benefits of in-person interaction, the office also plays a critical role in strengthening relationships and shared identity. According to Deskbird (2024), working from the office significantly enhances collaboration by enabling immediate communication, quicker decision-making, and more effective execution of team projects.
Physical proximity allows ideas to be exchanged seamlessly and reduces the delays and misunderstandings that can arise in digital-only environments. Shared spaces and resources also encourage spontaneous brainstorming and problem-solving, creating conditions where creativity and teamwork can thrive.
These collaborative advantages are reinforced by the shared experiences that naturally occur in physical workplaces. Forbes (2023) highlights that everyday in-office interactions—both structured and informal—are vital in building trust, strengthening relationships, and fostering a sense of belonging. Over time, these shared moments help establish a common identity and enhance team cohesion, supporting clearer communication and more productive collaboration, particularly within hybrid work models.
Mentorship for Early-Career Professionals
In-office work plays a particularly important role in supporting early-career professionals, who benefit most from hands-on mentorship and informal learning. Physical workplaces enable junior employees to observe best practices, receive real-time feedback, and build skills through everyday interaction—opportunities that are often more limited in fully remote settings.
Research cited by Forbes (2023) highlights that face-to-face environments remain essential for effective mentorship, knowledge and long-term professional development.
What This Means for Leaders
The question is no longer whether employees should return to the office, but how organizations can make in-office time meaningful. Successful workplace strategies prioritize purpose over presence by aligning office time with collaboration, learning, and connection rather than individual, task-based work.
Leaders who clearly define why employees come together in person—and design environments that support those objectives are more likely to see improvements in engagement, retention, and overall performance.
At Fisher, we understand that culture doesn’t happen by accident. Creating environments where employees can do their best work requires intentional design and clear engagement strategies. Our Culture and Engagement Strategy services support employers in building workplaces that foster connection, commitment, and long-term success.
References:
Deskbird. (2024, September 30). 9 benefits of working in the office vs. at home. https://www.deskbird.com/blog/9-benefits-of-working-in-office-vs-at-home
Forbes Human Resources Council. (2023, December 26). 18 overlooked benefits of returning to the office for work. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2023/12/26/18-overlooked-benefits-of-returning-to-the-office-for-work/
The Independent. (2026, January 5). It’s good to spend some time in the office: The benefits of face-to-face work. https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/work-from-home-office-remote-benefits-b2894944.html
