By Dr. Cecile Benade, Industrial Psychologist and Organisational Effectiveness Lead at Momentum Group
For much of the post-pandemic period, the narrative around returning to the office has focused heavily on resistance mainly surrounding concerns over flexibility, maintaining a balanced work-life approach and productivity. But lost in this conversation is a crucial dimension: the psychological value of shared workspaces.
At a time when disconnection, burnout and disengagement are increasing, the workplace can and should serve as a source of support, structure and renewed purpose.
From a professional standpoint, being physically present in the office unlocks social and psychological resources that remote work struggles to replicate. Informal conversations, spontaneous collaboration and face to face feedback all contribute to stronger workplace relationships and a deeper sense of belonging. Don’t underestimate the value of sharing weekend highlights or a movie recommendation. These small… although significant interactions help employees feel seen, valued and connected to something bigger than themselves.
This sense of connection directly impacts an individual’s emotional resilience and mental well-being. It builds trust, reduces stress and boosts morale – all of which are essential ingredients for a thriving workforce.
The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model supports this: when employees have access to social support, leadership and collaboration tools – resources more readily available in-office, they are more engaged and motivated. The office on the other hand, when used with intent, becomes a space of energy and cohesion.
Another overlooked benefit is the psychological structure provided by a formal work setting. Getting ready for work, commuting to the office, having defined work hours and physically separating home from work helps to establish mental boundaries. This routine reduces the risk of burnout and improves focus by enabling employees to switch roles more effectively throughout the day.
According to a 2023 Gartner study, employees value the office for exactly these reasons namely: relationship-building, collaboration and access to resources. Travel time and cost remain barriers but, these challenges can be addressed by making office days purposeful and well-supported.
At Momentum Group, we recognised early on that asking people to return to the office on a more regular basis needed to be meaningful versus mandatory. We based our approach on strengthening culture, improving collaboration and creating shared experiences which support our business goals and employees’ well-being.
With our brand purpose at the forefront i.e. to build and protect our clients’ financial dreams, we continue to engage with leadership and employees in shaping the path forward, ensuring the rationale behind our hybrid strategy is well communicated and understood. We steered conversations towards a deliberate cultural shift aligned with our purpose.
The company’s ‘Impact Strategy’ calls for greater collaboration across teams. Being together, at the right times enables us to work more effectively toward these shared objectives. One of our core culture behaviours encourages authentic human connection, and this is best achieved when people are physically present – especially for key moments.
Crucially, we’ve rejected a one-size-fits-all model. We understand that business units operate differently and that employees face unique personal circumstances. That’s why we promote open dialogue between leaders and teams, co-creating flexible solutions that work for both the business and the individual.
Despite what the online naysayers publish on the daily, returning to the office actually translates to moving forward with intention and a renewed understanding of what people need in order to do their best work. This statement proves especially poignant in an age where social media and online connectivity is supposed to draw us closer together when in fact, it’s responsible for driving a generation who is more isolated and lonelier than ever before.
By reframing the narrative to focus on our employees’ collective well-being, connection and long-term growth, we can help the SA workforce rediscover the value of shared spaces and promote a culture where both individuals and organisations thrive.
| Tips for the introverted remote worker
Just in case you’re someone with an introverted personality type and thrive on working alone, here are five tips to help the transition back to the office a little easier: 1. If at all possible, rather start off by spending one to two days working in the office on a weekly basis. Make these days purposeful by using them for meetings, collaboration or creative brainstorming as these activities benefit most from in-person presence. 2. Treat office days as an opportunity to refresh your routine. Plan your commute, set clear work hours and build in downtime for recharging. A predictable rhythm can reduce anxiety and improve focus. An additional upper for these days is to take pleasure in the dressing up experience of leaving your home. Lay clothes out the night before to spark additional creativity – this is great for the soul! 3. Bring elements of comfort from home. These can take the form of photos, a favourite mug and noise-cancelling headphones. Creating a welcoming personal space in the office can make the environment feel more supportive and familiar. 4. Be intentional about balancing your work time and personal commitments. If flexibility is key for you, have an open discussion with your manager about your needs as most workplaces are open to thoughtful, honest dialogue. 5. Use office time to connect. Have coffee with a colleague, check in with your team or attend in-person learning sessions which energise you. Reframing the office as a space for collaboration and growth can shift your mindset. |
