In the wake of the pandemic, Romania, like many countries, experienced a significant shift in the way people work. Remote work became the new normal, offering flexibility and safety amidst uncertainty. However, as we move forward, it is  crucial to recognize the importance of returning to the physical office, particularly in a Romanian context.

While employees in many sectors – advertising being on top – push towards a mixed working approach, at most (although the 100% remote is preferred), Romanian leaders, echoing global sentiments, emphasize the irreplaceable value of in-person collaboration and its role in driving innovation.

A commonly-shared belief is that while remote work has its advantages, especially during the pandemic, we have seen the limitations it imposes on creativity and teamwork. The physical office provides an environment where ideas flow freely and teams can collaborate seamlessly.

Moreover, the return to the physical office is essential for rejuvenating local economies, a particularly pertinent issue in Romanian urban centers. Clearly, many businesses in Romania, especially those catering to office workers, have suffered because of remote work. The return to the physical office will not only revitalize these businesses, but also will support the broader economic recovery.

In Romania, as in other parts of the world, the workforce presents arguments against returning to the physical office. Employees cite the flexibility and work-life balance offered by remote work as significant benefits. However, there are industries where remote work has faced greater opposition from employees. In Romania, sectors like IT and outsourcing, advertising and social media content creation, which have historically embraced remote work, may encounter resistance from employees who have grown accustomed to the flexibility of working from home.

Additionally, Romania’s knowledge-based industries, such as finance and consulting, may see pushback from employees reluctant to return to traditional office settings.

However, as companies adapt and implement hybrid models that combine the advantages of remote work with the benefits of in-person collaboration, these concerns can be addressed effectively.

At VON Consulting we believe that while remote work has played a crucial role in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, the return to the physical office is essential for driving innovation, supporting local economies and fostering a sense of community. By acknowledging and addressing the concerns of the workforce, particularly in industries where remote work is deeply entrenched, Romania can successfully transition to a hybrid work model that ensures both productivity and employee well-being.