The Sociology of Remote Work and Organisational Culture: How the Shift to Hybrid and Remote Work Reshapes Workplace Norms, Power Dynamics, And Social Cohesion.
Publication Date: 12/03/2026
Author(s): Adeyanju Adebisi, Olanrewaju Balogun.
Volume/Issue: Volume 9, Issue 1 (2026)
Page No: 132-150
Journal: African Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development (AJESD)
Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed an unprecedented shift toward remote and hybrid work, reshaping organizational life across sociological and management dimensions. This article examines how dispersed work arrangements influence identity, belonging, and workplace culture, while simultaneously addressing productivity, leadership, and policy-making challenges. Drawing on sociological theories of social cohesion, identity construction, and digital interaction, alongside management scholarship on performance, leadership, and organizational policy, the study employs a conceptual and secondary data approach with illustrative case studies from global organizations. Findings highlight the dual impact of hybrid work: it affords autonomy and flexibility, enhancing work-life integration, yet introduces risks of professional invisibility, fragmented networks, and inequities in access to social capital. Leadership that emphasizes trust, communication, and fairness, combined with policies promoting inclusion, well-being, and flexibility, emerges as critical for sustaining productivity and culture. The article contributes theoretically by bridging sociology and management in understanding hybrid work and practically by offering strategies for inclusive, resilient, and results-oriented organizational practices. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies on career progression, digital rituals, and cross-cultural differences in hybrid work adoption.
Keywords:
Remote work; Hybrid work; Organisational culture; Social cohesion; Workplace identity; Digital work.
