Hybrid work: How 'proximity bias' can lead to favouritism

While many institutions have called for a full return to the office, others are moving in the opposite direction. These leaders have a responsibility to promote a remote-first mindset.

Yet, companies that are moving to a hybrid work model are wrestling with how to best deal with the proximity bias - the tendency to give preferential treatment to those who are physically present in the office.

The proximity bias is a mental shortcut that prioritises what feels the safest, even if it leads to faulty judgements.

• A 2015 study found that remote workers at a Chinese travel agency worked better than in-office employees but lost out on performance-based promotions.
• Leadership are more forgiving of poor performance of those in close proximity while not properly valuing the expertise of remote workers.
• Leaders may be inclined to hand an in-person employee an assignment rather than someone working from home.