Working from home has become a preferred option for many people, offering more comfort, a relaxed environment, and minimal social interaction—something that suits introverts in particular.
However, the trend of returning to the office has been gaining momentum in recent times.Employers are moving away from remote work, and Amazon, the second-largest private employer globally, is following suit.
According to CNBC, by the end of the year, 90% of companies are expected to return to office spaces. Employers believe that workers are more productive in an office setting, and it’s easier to foster learning and strengthen company culture when employees are together, surrounded by their colleagues.
This shift is expected to take place at Amazon in January, according to the BBC. CEO Andy Jassy communicated to employees that this change would help them collaborate, innovate, and connect more effectively. “We’ve decided to return to the office environment as we had before the onset of COVID,” Jassy stated.
Jassy has long been skeptical about remote work, though Amazon employees were previously allowed to work from home two days a week. The decision has created tension within the company, which employs over 1.5 million people worldwide, both full-time and part-time. In Seattle, this has even led to protests. Amazon’s firing of a protest organizer further aggravated employee dissatisfaction.
Remote Workers Are Physically Healthier
Although not everyone can work remotely, those who can often appreciate the option. It offers benefits like saving on commuting costs and allowing greater flexibility in managing their schedules, which is especially helpful for parents.
Indeed reports that people working from home tend to be healthier than those who are in the office every day. The time saved on commuting can be spent exercising, cooking at home, or simply resting after work.
