Few subjects have provoked more debate in western nations since pandemic restrictions were lifted than home working. Remote working, as it is otherwise referred to, saw an enormous increase in popularity as social distancing became a critical way communities battled COVID-19. Many would not have predicted that its relevance would remain sky high for months and even years after vaccines first entered the arms of the most vulnerable. Yet some employees contended that working from home led to lifestyle improvements that were previously unattainable, such as reduced childcare costs. However, in a LinkedIn post, Joshua Shull has argued that the advantages of stimulated innovation and cooperation in a dedicated working environment outweigh those experienced during the pandemic.
Shull has previously garnered headlines for championing company culture to build healthier businesses and for his willingness to let go of sub-standard real estate agents in favor of more motivated ones. The primary case study in which he practices his philosophies is the running of Shull Homes, an Arizona-based real estate brokerage and contracting company. But more recently, he has published his views on social media, prompting debate and discussion of his often provocative ideas.
“I’d argue production was pinched, and morale was brought to new lows,” he said, referring to the working-from-home period during the pandemic. “Employers savored the benefits of lower overhead costs, but in exchange for what? As a business owner, I’ve discovered quickly the value of a ‘place of business,’ and this is where the meat of my topic begins.”
The main point of Shull’s post was not to point the finger at work-from-home advocates, as in countless articles elsewhere. Instead, it aligned more with his usual favored topics, including hands-off leadership and employee self-development. In the post, he made a positive case for in-office working rather than a negative one against employee flexibility.
“The office I’ve created is a place of opportunity for anyone that walks through its doors,” he added. “(It’s) a hub for professionals to bring their ideas in front of other creative minds to challenge them,” before going on to comment that “The synergy of highly ambitious people working together can never be matched by executive appointment or an autocratic thumb.”
Shull Homes has previously received coverage for its ambitious post-pandemic recruitment plans and unorthodox working environment. Its founder is likely the most prominent force driving its distinctive approaches to everything from open failure to client relationships. The latter has been described as hybrid, but with his latest social media activity, we know that Joshua Shull is firmly in the camp that the best outcomes for employees and employers lie in the office.
