Remote work continues to shape the modern workforce, and companies worldwide embrace this transformative shift in employment dynamics. In the wake of the pandemic, remote work has gained unprecedented acceptance, with a significant percentage of organizations opting for partially or entirely remote workforces. While remote work offers numerous advantages, including cost-effectiveness and flexibility, it can sometimes leave employees feeling disconnected from their colleagues.
Get ready to explore the benefits of in-person events for remote companies like Cyberbacker and how they contribute to team building, mental well-being, and overall company growth as we gain insights from Shiela Mie Legpasi, President of Cyberbacker. This company understands the importance of balancing remote work with in-person interactions.
The Need for Connection in Remote Work
Remote work undoubtedly revolutionized the way people balance their personal and professional lives. “When I was presented with the opportunity to work remotely from home, it changed the structure of my entire life,” Legpasi shares. “Working remotely has allowed people like myself to support their families while remaining present for children,” she adds.
Investing in In-Person Opportunities
Shiela Mie Legpasi emphasizes the need for balance or “counterbalance” in any work situation. While remote work offers unparalleled flexibility, investing in in-person opportunities for remote employees can provide the equilibrium they seek. These opportunities can help bridge the gap between remote colleagues, fostering stronger connections and enhancing overall job satisfaction.
The Benefits of Face-to-Face Interactions
Organizing regular in-person gatherings may seem challenging when your company’s workforce is dispersed across different regions or even countries. However, many companies recognize the value of holding at least one “all-hands” meeting annually. These gatherings offer remote teams the chance to meet face-to-face, interact, relax, and build stronger bonds.
For CEOs and leadership teams, in-person meetings and events facilitate more effective decision-making, encourage strategic thinking, and contribute to the local economy through travel and hosting expenses. While remote work tools like Zoom and Slack are highly effective for communication, there’s no substitute for the personal touch of a handshake, post-meeting dinners, or direct conversations with company leaders. Cyberbacker, for instance, acknowledges the importance of in-person meetings in maintaining its unique company culture.
With all the benefits that in-person events offer, even staunch proponents of remote work should consider planning occasional meetups, even if only on an annual basis.
Counterbalancing Work and Life
One of the most significant advantages of remote work is the opportunity it provides employees to regain a sense of balance in their lives. Whether it’s structuring a work-from-home schedule that aligns with family commitments or allowing for hybrid work arrangements, remote work can be tailored to individual needs. However, the value of in-person meetings and events should not be underestimated.
Shiela Mie Legpasi emphasizes the importance of maintaining this equilibrium, “sometimes, the necessary work requires one to come in early, work late, or work during the weekends. As a counterbalance, vacation time is widely available, and I can completely focus on my family during that time. Leaders will tell you that you will fail if you lean too far one way or the other. Burnout will be inevitable.”
In an era where employee retention and preventing burnout are top priorities for leaders, recognizing the need for meaningful in-person interactions alongside flexible remote work arrangements is crucial. These interactions are pivotal in creating a healthy and happy work environment. As remote work continues to evolve, remote companies like Cyberbacker demonstrate that a balanced approach incorporating in-person events is essential for employee well-being and business growth.
