Many of us have been working from home for almost the last 18 months. It’s been a long time and a heck of a struggle to get ourselves used to operating from our own houses. Not only that, juggling childcare and homeschooling with work and finding a decent work life balance so we’re not constantly on the clock. Many people are enjoying the working from home idea and lots aren’t quite ready to return to the office. With that in mind, businesses are going to have to offer something special to get employees coming back through their office doors and not looking elsewhere for working from home opportunities. Let’s have a look at what companies can put into place to make the return to the office that little bit easier and appealing.
Flexibility
Firstly, staff and employees have wanted more flexibility in their jobs for a long time. It’s not just come about over the last couple of years, people have lives outside of work and want to be part of that. This might mean flexible working hours and days where working at home is possible. Don’t forget that some people might not want to be back in a busy environment just yet. It might be a cause of anxiety and that needs to be understood and supported.
Parents want the ability to drop their kids off at school, pick them up and attend their sports days. Employees want to feel like they are worthwhile, like they are working not live not living to work. Offering flexibility of how where and when we work can lead to happier employees. Staff members who actually want to be part of the business and are loyal to it.
Working Environment
Secondly, the return to the office doesn’t mean going back to what we were doing before. With the ability to work from home more often, this might mean that the business can save money by downsizing the office. This will mean less rent to pay, lower bills to settle. The office environment is so important.
It is a creative space where ideas spark and come to life. It needs to be a place that encourages work, that is set out to allow for collaboration. Somewhere that everyone feels equal and everyone has a voice. Junior designers have fresh ideas which those with more years under their belt might not have thought of. Your staff need to be able to feel like they can be vocal in their work place. Teamwork is underrated.
Modern Facilities
The facilities within the office need to be top notch. If you want the best staff in your roles, you need to offer them the best. This means modern computers, comfortable chairs, natural light, inspirational quotes, places where downtime can be taken.
Furthermore, some of the best ideas happen away from the desk. Some of them come from walking meetings and team away days. Employees need to be supported, things have changed and this can cause people to feel different. Purpose built meeting room pods can double up as spaces for business meetings as well as supportive catch ups and even connecting with therapists. Invest in your facilities that your staff need. You will be investing in them.
Health Conscious & Perks
In a post pandemic world, our outlook on health might have changed. Consider putting into place some health benefits and perks for your staff. It will boost morale, make them feel better, lead to fewer sick days and help the business function at a better level. It can be fruit in the office kitchen, discounted gym membership across the road, health workshops with third parties and so much more.
In conclusion, the return to the office isn’t going to be easy for everyone. However businesses can help make the transition to this next step that little bit easier. Finally, think about the future of your workforce and how you can assist them.
