After starting to watch the series Yellowstone my wife driving me to the train station has a whole new meaning.

It was great to be back in the big city after working remote for the last 8 plus months without being in the office meeting team members face to face again.

I had to refresh my mobile app to buy a train ticket, the parking lots remained empty post pandemic, the trains had signs that people skipping paying their fares would be prosecuted and hand sanitizers were everywere.

Plenty of seats available, no quiet car needed or anyone kicking my seat.

So, everything was normal again.

Great ride!

I have been commuting to work and the office for many years and it is still apocalyptic to see the stores, restaurants closed down that I often frequented before and the complete change in the vibe of the people around me trekking to the office.

I walk to the office from the train station too, but less people mean a faster time from point A to point B. I think I shaved off 10 minutes plus one way since I could walk the sidewalks instead of the street and get all the lights. I dropped some calories and got my heart rate up too.

Was it worth it for a 2-hour event that resulted in a 4 plus hour commute round trip and the stress of trying to catch a train on the way back?

The trains do not even run at the hour on my line to the suburbs anymore.

Yes!

Met people I didn’t even meet before and ensured I showed my company how committed I am to the team and culture building plus some networking that will help when an issue may occur.

Some Chicago deep dish pizza didn’t hurt either.

Safety concerns in Chicago especially at night?

Nope.

I work in corporate stand back.

By the way I didn’t end up pushed off a cliff like in the show.

My ride was waiting for me at a late pick-up.

This isn’t Yellowstone Ranch.

Attending company events, even if you work remotely, can offer several benefits for both you and the organization:

1. Networking Opportunities: Company events provide a chance to connect with colleagues, superiors, and other professionals. Building and maintaining relationships can be beneficial for your career growth and may lead to collaboration opportunities.
2. Team Building: Face-to-face interactions contribute to a stronger sense of camaraderie and team spirit. Building relationships with your team members in person can enhance collaboration and communication when working remotely.
3. Understanding Company Culture: Being physically present at company events allows you to experience and understand the company culture firsthand. This insight can be valuable for aligning your work and behavior with the organization’s values.
4. Learning and Development: Many company events include workshops, presentations, or training sessions that can enhance your skills and knowledge. This professional development can contribute to your career growth and effectiveness in your remote work.
5. Visibility and Recognition: Attending events can increase your visibility within the organization. Meeting colleagues and superiors in person can help you stand out and be remembered, potentially leading to recognition and opportunities for advancement.
6. Enhanced Communication: Face-to-face interactions facilitate clearer communication. Personal connections can help in understanding nuances and resolving issues more effectively than remote communication tools.
7. Boosting Morale: Company events often create a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. Participating in such events can boost morale and contribute to a sense of belonging, which is important for overall job satisfaction.
8. Cultural Inclusivity: Remote work might lead to feelings of isolation or being out of the loop. Attending company events helps remote employees feel more included and connected to the larger organization.

While there can be valid reasons for not attending every company event, making an effort to attend some can provide a well-rounded experience and contribute to your professional and personal growth.