Why Young Professionals Should Consider Going Against the Remote Work Trend

With remote work becoming the new norm, employees across industries and career stages are enjoying a greater sense of work-life balance. It’s a benefit that many didn’t think possible just a few years ago, and for younger professionals who entered the workforce during or after the pandemic, this flexible work arrangement might seem like the standard. It’s easy to see why so many prioritize remote work—after all, who wouldn’t want the freedom to work from anywhere?

However, there’s something important for young professionals to consider as they continue to grow in their careers. This isn’t college anymore, and as you advance, you’re not just competing against peers your own age. The job market is filled with professionals who may be a decade or more ahead of you in their careers. These individuals began their professional journeys before remote work became widespread, back when the traditional office setting was the only option. While the lack of work-life balance in those days was a downside, those professionals gained something invaluable from being in the office five days a week.

For years, they were surrounded by their managers, high-performing colleagues, and senior staff—people they could observe, interact with, and learn from on a daily basis. These seasoned professionals had the opportunity to develop soft skills that come naturally in an office environment—skills like navigating interpersonal dynamics, handling impromptu meetings, and reading a room. These are things that can be much harder to pick up when you’re working remotely, interacting with colleagues primarily through a screen.

This raises an important question for younger professionals who have mostly worked remotely: Should you intentionally seek out in-person work experiences? It may seem counterintuitive in a world where everyone is clamoring for remote jobs, but choosing to spend some time in a traditional office environment could give you a significant edge in the long run.

Think of it this way—remote work isn’t going anywhere, and you can always transition back to it later in your career. But by gaining meaningful on-site experience now, you’ll develop a set of skills that will set you apart from your peers who never made the effort. The ability to navigate office politics, engage in face-to-face communication, and build in-person relationships can be a major advantage when it comes to landing promotions or leadership roles.

Imagine interviewing for a role where you’re up against someone with similar experience but who has only worked remotely. If you can demonstrate that you’ve had the benefit of both remote and in-office experience, your versatility will likely make you a more attractive candidate. Employers value adaptability, and the skills you acquire in an in-person setting are ones that can’t always be taught in a virtual world.

This doesn’t mean remote work doesn’t have its place—it absolutely does. But if you haven’t yet had the chance to immerse yourself in an on-site work environment, it may be worth stepping outside your comfort zone for a few years. Being in the room, observing how seasoned professionals operate, and learning the subtle art of in-person collaboration can provide you with insights and advantages that are difficult to replicate remotely.

In today’s job market, competition is fierce, and as a young professional, finding ways to differentiate yourself is key. By intentionally seeking out opportunities to work in person, even when it’s not the trendy option, you can gain an experience that many of your peers will miss. And when the time comes to transition back to remote work, you’ll do so with a unique set of skills that will make you stand out.

So, while everyone else may be looking for that perfect remote job right out of college, consider taking the road less traveled. Spend a few years in the office, soak up the knowledge and experience that only an in-person setting can provide, and give yourself an edge that will last throughout your career.