The work-from-home revolution is harming younger workers
I know this sounds heretical. But if I had a kid working at EY or Bank of America who was being told to show up more often, I’d side with the bosses. While the younger generation is the most likely to demand homeworking, I fear they are also the most disadvantaged by it.
Over the past two years I’ve been hearing stories from 20-somethings about the boredom, loneliness, and frustration of internships and jobs that are exclusively or primarily online. One bloke was thrilled to get into the civil service. He’d been the first in his family to go to university, and his proud but poor parents bought him a suit. But on day one, his manager told him to dress down – and come in only two days a week. His excitement has dwindled.
Flexibility can be a godsend if you’re a parent. But if you’re just starting out, its benefits are less clear.
I’m not urging a return to presenteeism. But I do worry that staggering numbers of 20- and 30-somethings have never worked full-time in an office environment. A survey in the United States in October 2022 found that 82 percent of Gen Z were in that situation – with many fearing they lacked skills as a result. They were probably right.
A new study bears out the old-fashioned idea that sitting with colleagues in a building can improve skills and job satisfaction. Junior tech engineers wrote more code at home but got far less feedback, especially if they were female. In the office, they had mentoring and advice, which made them less likely to quit.
The transition to remote work brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly brought new levels of freedom and flexibility for many employees. However, younger workers, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, may be paying a steep price. As internships and jobs increasingly become exclusively or primarily online, stories of boredom, loneliness, and frustration have become all too common.
One young man’s experience in the civil service illuminates the challenges faced by many in this generation. On his first day, he arrived dressed in a suit, a symbol of pride for his impoverished family who saw him as the first to attend university. However, his excitement quickly waned when his manager informed him that dressing down and working from the office only two days a week was the norm. The lack of physical presence and interaction left him disheartened and longing for a more traditional working environment.
While flexibility can be a boon for working parents, its benefits may be less clear for those who are just starting their careers. A survey conducted in the United States in October 2022 revealed that a staggering 82 percent of Generation Z employees had never worked full-time in an office setting. Many of them expressed concerns about lacking essential skills as a result. This fear may not be unfounded.
A recent study lends credence to the notion that working alongside colleagues in a physical office can significantly enhance skills and job satisfaction. Junior tech engineers, for example, were found to produce more code when working from home. However, they received far less feedback, particularly female engineers. The absence of in-person mentoring and guidance deprived them of valuable support, increasing their likelihood of leaving their positions.
As the work-from-home trend continues to gain momentum, it is crucial to consider the potential consequences for younger workers. While remote work offers undeniable advantages, it is equally important to recognize the value of in-person collaboration, mentorship, and professional development that a traditional office setting can provide. Striking the right balance between flexibility and a supportive work environment is key to ensuring the long-term success and satisfaction of the younger workforce.
In conclusion, the work-from-home revolution, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, has inadvertently disadvantaged younger workers. Their lack of exposure to full-time office environments may leave them feeling unprepared and lacking essential skills. The need for in-person interaction, mentoring, and feedback cannot be underestimated. As organizations navigate the future of work, it is crucial to find a balance that meets the needs of both employees and employers, ensuring the younger generation’s success and well-being in the workplace.
