What does it mean to really be present?

It’s been more than four years and the remote versus hybrid work environment discussions continue.

Recently, Fortune magazine reported that Chief Human Resource Officers (CHROs) shared they will give better advancement opportunities to workers who come into the office five days a week. Confirming that, a leader of The Conference Board told Fortune , “if you want to have a career and accelerate your career growth, you should be more willing to be present on-site.”

While there’s no question that relationships are forged and productivity ensues with in-person engagements, showing up in-person and being present aren’t always on equal footing. 

Take a look at your calendar to see how many meetings you attended last week. How many did you actually participate and listen to? How often did you check your phone, messages or emails?

Leaders who aren’t present run the risk of alienating team members or contributing to low morale. When you model disconnected leadership, it’s more likely that your team will follow suit, which can have a lasting effect on your organizational culture.

The benefits of being present

Being present as a leader is a non-negotiable and it doesn’t change whether you’re in the office or working remotely. When you're focused and dialed in as a leader, you can build culture, team, and create a productive work environment—regardless of physicality. 

In fact, research suggests that there’s a direct correlation between leaders’ mindfulness and the well-being and performance of their people. There are direct benefits to you, the leader as well. You’re mind is clearer and you’re able to make more sound decisions or problem solve more effectively. 

CHROs polled by the Conference Board shared that they expect promotion eligibility to be increased for fully in-office workers over remote workers and plan to offer these in-office workers more development opportunities.

Physical presence in the office may be rewarded now, but having the skill and discipline to be fully present as a leader will be rewarded by your team and your organization for both the short- and long-term.

So leaders, ask yourselves, how do you plan to show up and be present today?