Remote work has revolutionized the way we approach our jobs, offering an escape from the daily commute and the promise of increased productivity by eliminating office distractions. However, for Gen Z workers, the choice between remote work and in-person collaboration at the office is a critical one, especially as they embark on their career journeys. New York University business professor Suzy Welch emphasizes that how one defines success varies among generations, and the remote work trend may not align with the traditional path to success.
Welch points out that those who opt for a fully remote or predominantly remote work life may have a different vision of success. While they enjoy the convenience of remote work, they may not aspire to become CEOs or attain traditional definitions of success. She cautions that down the line, these remote workers may not reap the same “financial rewards” as their office-bound peers who prioritize in-person interactions and client engagements over, for example, attending parties.
A recent viral TikTok video by a Gen Z worker complaining about the time-consuming commute to her office job highlights the challenges of the traditional office setup. The video raises questions about work-life balance and the toll commuting takes on personal life.
However, Welch underscores that the path to success has never simply been about working a nine-to-five job. It requires dedication, hard work, and going the extra mile. The rise of remote work does not change this fundamental principle.
There are also potential downsides to remote work. Jobs that can be done remotely in one country may be outsourced to countries with lower labor costs. For example, an Indian investor in Australia noted that various roles, including support staff, IT, finance, and mortgages, could be outsourced to India due to its cost-effective and English-speaking workforce. This presents a challenge for Gen Z workers looking to secure their positions.
Another concern for remote workers is proximity bias. This bias occurs when company leaders favor employees who are physically close to them, which can affect performance reviews, promotions, and even job security.
One aspect of in-person work that Gen Z workers may miss out on is mentoring. A report from WFH Research revealed that in-office workers spend more time per week on mentoring activities compared to their remote peers. This underscores the importance of face-to-face interactions in career development.
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Despite the allure of remote work, the 2023 State of Workers report from Morning Consult indicates that Gen Z shows a strong preference for working in an office. This preference aligns with the desire for quick growth and the importance of personal connections with managers and directors.
Ultimately, the choice between remote work and in-person office work is a complex one, and the definition of success varies from person to person. Gen Z workers are facing this decision at a time when the workplace is undergoing a profound transformation, and their choices will shape the future of work. Success, in the end, will depend on a combination of individual goals, opportunities, and adaptability in an evolving work landscape.
