Face-to-face Interactions vs. Virtual World
Over the years, there has been much talk about the benefits and costs of having webinars versus face-to-face meetings. As we have explored in our newsletters and blogs, there is a definite place for each in one’s organization. This week’s decision from Yahoo’s CEO to make all full time employees work from the office has sparked much discussion about people working virtually from home versus going into an office almost every day.
To start, let’s take a look at a recent article in the Wall Street Journal by Rachel Emma Silverman called Step Into the Office-Less Company.
The article begins by stating, “Work gets done wherever employees choose, and virtual meetings are conducted on Skype of over Internet chat.” If there are very important questions that need to be answered between these organized meetings, phone calls are essential.” In fact, Esprit operates mainly through conference calls, which are enhanced through WebEx, Microsoft Live or similar software. Many of our clients utilize internal blogs to communicate more directly with the employees that are located separately. If necessary, they are willing to fly someplace to coordinate details and complete a task.
Utilizing an “office-less” company creates a remote workforce, allowing for more talent and a greater selection because they are not limited by geography. With the technology available today, these employees can communicate regularly to stay on task. Companies also save money on real estate costs. At the same time, this expense can be offset and reallocated into travel costs. Within Esprit, many members of the tech team are located in California. Daily communication is used to stay in touch with the projects and the progress being made.
Another benefit to working within a company that is not restrained to office space, is the nonhierarchical management structures that can develop. This allows teams and workers the authority to make their own decisions and complete needed tasks on their own basis, with limited supervision. This freedom from restraints can foster creativity and productivity within these groups, as they are working according to their schedules. Individuals are granted their own hours with contact from team leaders as needed.
However, there are some negative aspects that correlate with an “office-less” company, which are brought up this week by Yahoo’s CEO Marissa Mayer who is no longer permitting Yahoos to work from home. This Yahoo memo is directed towards those individuals who are full-time home employees. She states, “To become the absolute best place to work, communication and collaboration will be important. So we need to be working side-by-side. That is why it is critical that we are all present in our offices.” First, there is a lack of face-to-face interaction and personal contact with other employees when some individuals are working from home offices. Since most of their work will be done through virtual spaces, it may be difficult to develop a bond with one another. It is important to create a cohesive culture with the employees, to ensure that everyone is striving for a common goal. New employees will not grow as much without the personal connections that could be established through a standard office space. It is a fine line for many people to separate home life from work life and it could be hurtful to one area of one’s life if they interfere too frequently. This alteration in company structure for Yahoo will most likely create some turmoil amongst some employees, as some may have to look at relocation or resigning due to the requirement of working in a designated office space.
Ultimately, “being virtual makes everything more convenient.” But, is that the best structure for your company today to achieve its goals? Face-to-face interaction is best for feedback, persuading, encouragement, and recognition.
It goes back to the discussion of having face-to-face meetings versus conference calls. There is a time and place for both. Today’s leaders need to know where and when to be digital and where and when to be face-to-face!
