Since the pandemic, the demand for remote and hybrid working has skyrocketed.
Remote work is commonplace in the financial landscape, where many professionals can comfortably work from home without compromising productivity.
While many financial employers offer their candidates more flexible work schedules to improve their chances of connecting with new talent, many encourage staff to return to the office.
After all, while remote work offers more flexibility and comfort to some employees, it lacks the structure, community, and development opportunities of an in-office role.
Before you commit to searching only for remote working opportunities or leaving your employer because they’re unwilling to offer flexible work, it’s worth considering the benefits of a traditional office setting.
The Benefits of Returning to the Office
According to studies from PWC, around 55% of employees say they want to work remotely for at least a portion of their week. However, most of these employees still recognise the value of traditional office spaces. Although remote work offers many benefits, from less commuting time to more schedule flexibility, it’s not ideal for every financial professional.
Office-based work offers more structure for employees, reduced feelings of isolation, and better opportunities to build crucial relationships with team members. Here are some reasons why candidates in the financial space may benefit from paying more attention to in-office roles.
1.    More Opportunities to Network
Networking is becoming increasingly crucial in the financial space. Connecting with other professionals, internally and externally, provides team members with opportunities to grow, learn, and evolve.
You’ll have more options in the office to build connections with leaders, colleagues, and peers in-person.
Cultivating these relationships will help you to develop robust, transferable communication skills. You’ll be able to build your emotional intelligence and empathy and interact with staff more meaningfully. One study even found that connecting with others in person can significantly improve mental function too.
As well as reducing feelings of isolation and improving your communication skills, networking can open the door to new job opportunities, putting you on your supervisor’s radar when planning succession strategies and considering promotions.
2.    Chances to Advance Your Career
Working in the office strengthens colleague relationships and improves connections with business leaders and managers. Connecting like this in person is a great way to draw attention to your skills and unlock opportunities for career growth.
You’ll build your social capital and be more likely to encounter new ways to develop your skills and knowledge. After all, while some learning and educational opportunities can be offered online, many training sessions, one-on-one lessons, and mentorship campaigns take place within the office. Learning from others happens naturally in the office environment.
Information is shared more freely in a physical office space, and collaboration happens organically as you interact with other staff members. Plus, you can take advantage of your company’s culture of learning and development, utilising buddy systems and mentorship.
Even the environment you access in an office environment can lead to advancement.
Modern workspaces are designed to boost productivity and efficiency, giving you access to all the resources you need to produce your best work. You’re more likely to achieve your professional goals and impress your managers.
3.    Improved work-life balance
One of the primary reasons many professionals in the finance space look for remote work is that it will improve their work-life balance. While you might not have to worry as much about commuting if you work from home, your overall schedule can suffer without structure.
Working remotely can make separating your home from your professional life difficult. One study found that many employees working remotely spent more time in meetings and working outside of their designated hours.
Returning to the office, even part-time, is an excellent way to get some structure and routine back into your schedule. It can help to reduce the risk of burnout and ensure you’re ready to thrive in your industry.
Preparing for the transition: Quick Tips
While returning to the office can benefit finance professionals, the transition can seem complex, especially if you’ve been working remotely for a while. A study from PWC found that many employees were concerned about returning to work, their health, stress levels, and more.
If you’re planning on returning to the office, the following tips could help:
- Find the right role: Returning to the office is much easier if you’re passionate about your role. If you’re unhappy in your current position, working with a financial recruitment professional will help you find an employer capable of offering the support and company culture you need to thrive in your career.
- Establish a routine: One of the most significant benefits of returning to the office is having more structure in your schedule. But it can take time to get used to a new routine. Plan and start building your day around the schedule you can expect when you return to the office. Wake up earlier, change your lunch breaks, and practice office life.
- Set realistic expectations: Ensure your employers know your strengths and limitations and any help you need to transition back into the office. Discuss this with your boss if you still need some flexibility in your schedule. Consider the boundaries you’ll need to set for in-person meetings and focused work time.
- Collaborate consistently: Going back into the office means you’ll have access to a team of professionals to help you achieve your goals. Take advantage of the collaborative landscape by working consistently with your colleagues, learning their strengths and weaknesses, and getting to know them better.
- Communicate frequently: Consistent communication is crucial during the return to the office. Make sure your business leaders and managers are aware of any issues you might be facing, and try to devise creative solutions to potential problems together. Don’t push yourself to adapt too quickly and risk burning out.
Is a Return to the Office Right for You?
Though remote work opportunities still appeal to many financial professionals, it’s essential not to overlook the benefits of returning to the office.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your network, connect with others, and advance your career quickly, returning to the office could be an excellent opportunity.
Work with a professional recruitment company like Rebus Recruitment to find an office space suited to your specific needs, with the culture and support you want.
Thanks
Rachel
About Rebus Financial Recruitment
Rebus Financial Recruitment provides a specialist and focused recruitment service to its customers, ranging from various organisations, including SMEs, to large PLCs.
We strive to offer both the client and candidate a seamless recruitment experience. Using our expertise, we get to the heart of employer and employee needs, and, in doing so, we match the two perfectly.
To learn more, contact one of our team today, or call us on 01282 930930.
