The year 2020 changed the office landscape forever. With the pandemic forcing many of us to work from home, we have seen that technology and flexibility can make remote work productive and pleasant. However, now the world is back to ‘normal’, the debate around whether traditional office work is still relevant goes on.

What the Office Environment Has to Offer

Firstly, let’s discuss the benefits of the office environment. One of the main advantages is collaboration. Being in the same physical space as your colleagues allows for spontaneous brainstorming sessions, quick problem-solving, and a sense of camaraderie. Additionally, the office provides a structured routine for the workday, separating work life from home life, and promoting good work-life balance. In fact, studies show that people who work from home tend to work longer hours, contributing to burnout and reduced productivity.

Moreover, there is more to the office environment than just the work itself. The office can provide a community, a sense of belonging, and the opportunity for social interaction. These connections during work hours can lead to friendships that extend beyond the workplace, creating a more meaningful work experience. Furthermore, office spaces offer facilities like gyms, restaurants, and outdoor areas that can make work more enjoyable and foster a healthier work-life balance.

However, there are many factors behind the change in attitudes towards the traditional office work environment. Employees find themselves valuing the convenience and productivity of remote work. Many are grateful for the extra time that is saved on commuting, and the flexibility to work varied hours. The absence of long commutes gives employees more time and energy to spend with their families and on other personal pursuits. With the pandemic normalising remote work and companies investing in implementing remote work procedures, it’s become increasingly difficult to reverse the trend of working from home that people are now so used to.

What do the statistics say?

A recent study found that UK workers are going into the office an average of 1.5 days a week, with only 13% heading into the office on a Friday. Pre Covid, workers were going into the office an average of 3.8 days a week, according to that same research. Interestingly, another study has found that 21% of people never want to work from home (source). Therefore, the question becomes how can employers encourage their employees to return to the office. 

Encouraging employees to return to the office requires a thoughtful approach. We’ve put together a number of strategies that employers can consider introducing if they have not done so already:

Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexible work arrangements that blend in-office and remote work options. This allows employees to gradually transition back to the office and maintain a work-life balance. Consider implementing hybrid models or staggered schedules to accommodate different preferences and needs.

Communication: Clearly communicate the benefits of returning to the office, such as increased collaboration, team building, and a better work-life balance. Address any concerns employees may have, such as safety measures in place, flexible working options, and the availability of vaccines.

Safety Measures: Prioritise the health and safety of employees by implementing comprehensive safety measures. This can include regular cleaning and disinfection protocols, providing hand sanitisers and personal protective equipment and ensuring proper ventilation.

Workspace Enhancements: Make the office environment more appealing by creating comfortable, functional, and collaborative spaces. Consider redesigning workspaces to support collaboration, providing comfortable furniture, and offering amenities such as office coffee machines, recreational areas, or wellness rooms.

Employee Engagement: Foster a sense of community and connection among employees by organising team-building activities, social events, and networking opportunities. Encourage open communication and collaboration to create a positive work environment.

Career Development and Learning Opportunities: Highlight the benefits of in-person interactions for professional growth and mentorship. Offer workshops, training sessions, and networking events that are exclusively available in the office. Emphasise the value of face-to-face interactions in building relationships and expanding professional networks.

Employee Input and Inclusion: Involve employees in the decision-making process regarding office life and policies. Seek feedback and suggestions, and be open to accommodating individual needs and concerns. This helps create a sense of ownership and inclusion.

Leading by Example: Managers and leaders should set an example by spending more time in the office themselves. By demonstrating their commitment to in-person collaboration, they can encourage employees to follow suit.

In conclusion, although remote work has become a popular way of work recently, the office environment isn’t obsolete by any means. With advances in technology and the need for flexibility, it’s easy to forget the benefits of working in the office. The office environment allows for a structured routine, collaboration, and a sense of community that remote work can struggle to replicate; thus, it still holds value to the modern workforce. Employers have the opportunity to embrace the new work environment, but also find ways to enhance the traditional office environment for their staff. In this way, companies can provide a work environment that prioritises all employees’ needs, whether in the office or at home.