Presentism vs Hybrid vs Remote - It's Complicated
- bendodd01
- Apr 7
- 1 min read
The world of work has undergone a seismic shift, upending long-held beliefs about the need for physical presence—especially in leadership.
As someone who has led global talent acquisition teams, I often ask myself: Could I have been just as effective from anywhere in the world?
The answer is nuanced. Remote work offers unmatched flexibility. Yet being on the ground—connecting face-to-face with teams, immersing in local cultures—can unlock insights and trust that video calls simply can’t replicate.
Recent data underscores this shift. A McKinsey study found that 35% of companies with hybrid models saw annual growth over 10%, compared to 28% of companies with rigid, single-location policies.
At the same time, employee preferences are evolving. The Australian HR Institute reports that the number of companies requiring no in-office attendance rose from 25% in 2023 to 28% in 2025, while mandates for 3–5 days onsite declined. The message is clear: Flexibility is no longer a perk—it’s an expectation.
At Benjamin Andrews Executive Search, we embrace this new reality. Our model is hybrid by design: remote where it works best, in-person where it matters most. We travel to meet clients and engage top-tier HR leadership talent—ensuring we stay connected, agile, and deeply in tune with the market.
As the debate around remote, hybrid, and in-office work continues, one thing is certain: organizations must lead with intention and flexibility. There is no universal formula—but there is opportunity for those willing to adapt.
We’re proud to lead by example.
Benjamin Andrews Executive Search
Comments