When Remote Work Is an Option: Why do Office Workers Still Go to the Office?

Sammanfattning

This study explores why employees choose to work from the office despite having the option to work remotely. As hybrid work has become increasingly common following the Covid-19 pandemic, organisations face new challenges regarding employee presence, organisational culture, collaboration, and work-life balance. The purpose of this study is therefore to examine the underlying factors that influence employees’ decisions to work from the office rather than remotely. The study is based on a qualitative research approach, where five semi-structured interviews were conducted with employees working within office-based roles. The empirical material was analysed through thematic analysis and interpreted using Social Exchange Theory and Border Theory as theoretical frameworks. The findings indicate that employees’ office attendance is influenced by several interconnected factors, including visibility, social interaction, collaboration, and the separation between work and private life. The results further suggest that physical presence is often associated with increased engagement, stronger workplace relationships, and greater perceived career opportunities. At the same time, employees describe remote work as valuable for flexibility and individual efficiency. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of how employees navigate hybrid work arrangements and highlights the continued importance of the physical workplace despite increased opportunities for remote work.