Several tech startups are biting the bullet by deciding to return to traditional five-day office workweeks. Amongst these, Statsig, founded by a former Facebook engineer, Vijaye Raji, is leading the way.
The company believes that consistent office presence will foster teamwork, better communication, and creativity. The potential for stronger working relationships through face-to-face interactions has reinforced this decision. Several other similar firms are now considering their work policies to find the right balance between in-office and remote work.
Statsig had enforced strict health and safety protocols during the pandemic to protect its employees. It continues to uphold these rules and regulations, with frequent health checks and updated safety measures based on scientific studies. Additionally, by managing to offer remote work options, Statsig has adopted an approach that prioritizes employee health while ensuring business continuity.
Despite the advantages of a conventional work model, Statsig recognizes the disadvantages as well. The costs of running a physical office, travel time, and hiring limitations incur significant expenses. Vijaye Raji aims to mitigate these challenges through a revised model that incorporates both on-site and remote work.
Simultaneously, supporting remote workers with robust tools and constructive communication can improve their productivity and engagement levels. Freed-up funds from reduced commuting expenses could be funneled towards technologies making remote work seamless.
On the other hand, physical interaction improves decision-making and strengthens office relationships. Also, the provision for immediate task delegation through urgent discussions makes traditional workplaces more productive. Such a structured setup fosters enhanced collaboration and serves as a platform for skill enhancement and networking.
Statsig, to counterbalance the challenges of this shift, is offering numerous benefits such as meals, flexible working hours, optional remote work during emergencies, and more. The company also offers health insurance coverage and professional development opportunities, and organizes team-building activities to boost unity and morale within the roles.
This novel switch to traditional office work is indeed an interesting deviation from the digital norms of remote work, especially in the current pandemic scenario. The ensuing period will be monitored extensively to understand its impact on the working styles of these tech startups and its wider implications on work culture.
