Abstract

As remote and hybrid work models become increasingly common, understanding their effects on employee well-being has become essential. While previous research has linked workplace loneliness to decreased engagement and performance, the role of work location and interpersonal closeness in this relationship remains underexplored. This thesis investigates how different work settings—remote, hybrid, and in-person—affect feelings of closeness, loneliness, and engagement. Drawing on theories of social exchange and employee engagement, this study uses in-depth interviews with 26 participants. Qualitative analysis uncovered rich, context-dependent insights. In-person work supported spontaneous communication and emotional closeness, while hybrid work allowed flexibility but presented challenges in maintaining strong social bonds. Remote workers reported high autonomy but also greater difficulty in forming close relationships, which contributed to feelings of isolation. Across all work locations, structured, meaningful communication and interpersonal support emerged as key contributors to reducing loneliness and enhancing engagement. This study contributes to the evolving literature on modern work environments by highlighting the complex interplay between physical presence, technology-mediated interaction, and workplace relationships. The findings offer practical implications for organizations aiming to design inclusive and engaging work experiences in a post-pandemic world.