Crafting a Better In-Office Experience
Worldwide, remote work is gaining popularity. While working from home was considered a novelty just a few years ago, the coronavirus quarantine of 2020 forced the practice into the mainstream. The U.S. Census Bureau showed that between 2019 and 2021, the number of people working from home tripled from 5.7% to 17.9% representing 27.6 million people. Today, remote work is more popular and sought after than ever. Experts believe that remote work is here to stay despite some employer objections. If your organization is returning to an office setting, here are a few things to consider to ensure your employees recognize the worth of coming to the office daily:
Multipurpose workspaces
Ensuring employee wellness is a critical component of any business strategy. During the pandemic, employees remarked that a benefit of working from home was its effect on their mental and physical health. Companies should pay attention to this fact and work to incorporate it into their strategy for creating a valuable workspace. Some companies have created multipurpose rooms with snacks and games where employees can relax, exercise, and decompress.
Building Connections
Creating a workplace that encourages interaction can benefit the company and its employees. An environment like this also helps to establish a sense of culture and community. Culture building and social cohesion can be achieved in a variety of ways. One such way is team building events where employees see each other face-to-face. These events help break down the in-between areas that sometimes feel less friendly than a busy open-plan office.
Work From Home Days
Working in the office is advantageous, though it is not the be-all and end-all of practical work experiences. For instance, employees who need to focus on a project or task may find that time at home, away from their desks, is beneficial or even necessary. With the proper communication and preparation, you can create a remote experience that complements and enhances your workplace environment. Therefore, it’s essential to consider how your business can integrate remote options into your workplace policy.
The image of the modern workspace is changing, but this doesn’t mean we should expect less from our work. However, for businesses to continue to draw and retain talent, it may be time to start looking at the office through a different lens—one that is more versatile and adaptable. Employers that focus on developing an organized and flexible workspace with company culture are helping create a more organized, productive, and creative workforce. Jointly, employees who see their office experience as positive are more motivated to come to the office daily, and both parties will reap the rewards.