Work in the 21st century

[nms]

Pros and cons to WFH. Have now seen it both and am not a proponent of 100% WFH. Even when the work is independently completed there is merit and getting to know colleagues, make contacts, learning through listening and just general banter.

Someone retiring was remarking the other day that those connections are completely gone now. No extended lunches, no after work drinks. Almost nothing and most things now feel forced. Thoughts?

This is particularly difficult for those in the early part of their career. Casual conversations and opportunities to learn things about colleagues' outside of work in the office is how cohesion happens. However, this kind of workplace culture was fading even before Covid. Common cafeterias or staff lounges (remember coffee breaks?) are largely gone from most work places.