Hybrid Work: 4 Key Times to Meet In-Person

Flex Index

While companies debate return to office (RTO) mandates, the most successful hybrid organizations are taking a different approach: making every in-person moment count. MIT Sloan Management Review columnist Brian Elliott reveals that hybrid work isn't just about where people work—it's about when and why teams come together.

Rather than defaulting to arbitrary office requirements, smart leaders are strategically designing four key types of in-person gatherings that actually boost productivity and team satisfaction.

Watch the video below to learn:

• Quarterly team gatherings that build lasting connection: Atlassian's research shows employees who meet with teams in person see a 27% boost in connection lasting 4-5 months—with even higher benefits for new hires.

• Strategic onboarding and training events: Microsoft found that new hires spending focused time with managers and teams drive higher satisfaction, while being in the office 4-5 days actually reduces productivity.

• Cross-functional project kickoffs that accelerate trust: In-person kickoffs help distributed teams align on goals while building the crucial relationships needed for project success—but only when you budget time for social connection, not just meetings.

• Function-specific rhythms tailored to team needs: Sales teams benefit from weekly "anchor days" for pipeline reviews and training, while product teams thrive with monthly "anchor weeks" for planning and team building.

• The productivity paradox of in-person days: Why your most valuable in-person days should be your least meeting-heavy, and how to design collaboration that energizes rather than drains teams.

• From desk rows to collaboration hubs: How to reimagine office spaces for the distributed work era, where seeing colleagues becomes special rather than routine.

The key insight? As face-to-face interactions become less frequent, their value increases proportionally. The most effective hybrid leaders don't measure success by "butts in seats"—they design intentional moments that foster crucial bonds and drive organizational success.