“Return to office” (or the new acronym, RTO) is a new initiative that many companies are implementing now that the pandemic is over. (Is it?) No, but it’s “the new normal” and businesses large and small are trying to figure out ways to cope. But what about those professionals whose offices closed permanently?

A recent article on digital.com cited that 7 out of 10 businesses permanently closed office space during the pandemic. The article went on to say that 45% of businesses with more than 500 employees permanently closed all of their office space, while 36% closed some of their offices. Yes, many workers were told to work from home permanently – a dream for some, a nightmare for others.

What about those times you want to be in the office, or need to be in the office? Even your return to office plan is “hybrid mode,” renting hybrid office space or “flex space” flexible office space could be the solution. Here are five reasons why you may need to return to office – and how to do it if you don’t have an office.

1. You need to collaborate with a co-worker on a document or project. Sometimes Zoom calls or Microsoft Team meetings don’t allow for full collaboration. Coworking and sitting face-to-face or side-by-side in an office or meeting room can really help get the work done.

2. You want to brainstorm and scribble on whiteboards and post-it notes. When you’re online, talking over someone can be rude. But when you’re in a brainstorm, ideas bubble up, people get excited and finish each other’s sentences… and that’s where the magic happens. Don’t let your unstable internet connection limit your creativity.

3. You need to conduct in-person training. For example, do you require personnel to be CPR-trained? This is just one of the many examples of where a conference room or training facility can be invaluable.

4. You really need a change of scenery. If you’re finding you aren’t getting work done because you’re distracted by the neighbors, the laundry, or a myriad of other reasons – a change of scenery could be just the thing. Try out a fully furnished office with a door and see how your productivity booms!

5. You want to network with other professionals. If your business is hitting a dry spell, you may crave coworking with other like-minded people. Collaboration space can be a think tank for business professionals of all sectors.

Sobon & Associates offers flexible office space, boardrooms and training rooms for rent on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Take a virtual tour or call us today!