“We want you to have a feeling of belonging, and to feel necessary. If you're not here it's really hard to do that."
“It’s very hard to feel necessary when you’re physically disconnected,” the Canadian writer said.
I agree with Malcolm to a point. The office provides the framework for success for people just starting their careers. Things you get from the office environment- Camaraderie, being part of a team working for a unified goal, observing and learning why some coworkers are successful and some are. When you are green, the power of Ozmosis (A gradual, often unconscious process of assimilation or absorption) is immense.
The other side of the coin. I think the benefit or drawback of working from home depends on where you are in your career and the type of person you are. Some people, regardless of their time on the job, need the structure of an office to keep them on task and productive. A funny observation thing the people who say they need the office the least are likely the people who need it the most. Others with experience flourish without the office; the commute, politics, drama, distractions...
After 30+ years working from an office I love working from home. I have never been more productive or felt closer to my clients. I have the freedom of choice to put clients before corporate. I am not sure if I will ever return to an office.
For those starting out, listen to Malcolm, go rock the office.