Not all distance is alike: revisiting the associations between physical and perceived proximity in multilocational work

Abstract

The relation between distance and perceived proximity within multilocational work has been subject to mixed empirical support. The massive shift toward remote work and technology-mediated communication gives renewed urgency to the need to understand the association between distance and proximity. This study utilizes multi-sourced two-wave data to examine different conceptualizations of distance and its consequential effects on perceived proximity through communication, work practices, and worker engagement. The findings suggest that configural dispersion (i.e., the percentage of dispersed colleagues) may be a more meaningful predictor of work experiences and practices than time distance (i.e., time zone differences between colleagues) and physical distance (i.e., miles apart). The findings also challenge the theorized reciprocal association between perceived proximity and communicative behaviors, suggesting perceived proximity is a distal outcome of, rather than an antecedent to, communication and engagement. The findings underscore the role of engagement and social communication in enhancing perceived proximity. In contrast, task-related communication and supplemental work practices deter perceptions of proximity to others. This investigation not only updates existing knowledge but also contributes a more comprehensive understanding of the spatial and temporal demands in multilocational work settings.