The last few years have really proven that for many work types, working remotely is possible. It’s been interesting to see the actions of different businesses post pandemic; while many have fully embraced the remote or hybrid work model, enjoying the perks of lower overheads and flexible working, many are now in a position they want to desperately lure staff back. I have seen businesses even start to relocate to bigger office spaces with the pressure of bringing people back to the office full time.
It’s a tricky situation to manage of course, especially if there is some resistance from staff to return to the office. Let’s explore some of the current trends and initiatives in corporate Australia aimed at encouraging a return to the office.
A recent statistic highlights the scale of this challenge: According to a survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 63% of businesses now mandate that employees work in the office at least two days a week. I expect this figure is even bigger now. Many businesses are keen to reestablish a physical presence in the workplace and regain the collaborative advantages that office environments traditionally offer.
1. Redesigning workspaces
One of the most noticeable changes is the redesign of office space by creating more engaging and flexible work environments. Offices are being transformed from static cubicle setups into dynamic spaces that foster collaboration and creativity. Features like open-plan areas, casual meeting spots, and collaborative hubs are becoming more common. For instance, companies like Atlassian and Canva have redesigned their workspaces to promote interaction and teamwork, hoping to make the office a more attractive and stimulating place to work.
2. Keeping flexible arrangements
While many businesses would love to have their staff back in the office full time, they realise the value their employees place on having some days working from home and have decided on settling on a compromised hybrid work model. These models allow employees to choose their in-office days while still enjoying remote work options. These businesses hope to strike a balance between the benefits of face-to-face interactions and the convenience of working from home and most importantly, keep their employees happy. We have come accustomed to the perks of working from home and it would be a deal-breaker to many if they had to eliminate work from home days altogether. Returning to the office for 3 out of every 5 days is a lot less of a bitter pill to swallow than returning 5 out of 5 days and businesses know this.
3. Enhancing health and wellness initiatives
The pandemic has heightened awareness around health and wellness, prompting companies to invest in initiatives that support employee well-being. In response, many Australian businesses are enhancing their wellness programs to make office attendance more appealing from on-site fitness facilities, mental health support, and ergonomic office furniture to such things as free yoga and tennis lessons. Companies like NAB and Telstra have introduced wellness programs and health benefits to make the office environment more focussed on well-being.
4. Revamping office perks
There’s nothing like free perks to entice people back to the office. While the commute may be a drag, knowing you are going to be enjoying a free barista-made coffee once you get there makes it all the more bearable as you transition back into office life. Free meals and snacks, free coffee and social events are becoming standard offerings in many offices. Some businesses are also offering subsidised childcare and transport to sweeten the blow.
5. Fostering a strong culture
Never before has it been more important to have a strong, inv]clusive, engaged and enjoyable work culture. Having mandate office days gives leaders opportunities to have regular team-building activities, open forums for feedback, recognition programs as well as all the informal gatherings and get-togethers to build strong connections and relationships.
Despite these efforts, employee reactions to returning to the office are mixed. So many employees have learned to really love the benefits of remote work, and place a lot of value on it. However, others recognise the value of in-person collaboration and networking opportunities that the office provides. A recent survey by the Australian HR Institute found that 45% of employees are reluctant to return to the office full-time, citing concerns about commuting, loss of work-life balance, and health and safety issues.
Conversely, 55% of employees are open to returning to the office on a hybrid basis or for specific purposes, such as team meetings or brainstorming sessions. Leaders need to take into consideration these mixed feelings when putting the wheels in motion for their return to work policies. Perhaps committing to a hybrid work model is the key to creating a company where the needs of the business, its leaders and its employees are all addressed.
How do you navigate returning staff to the workplace or navigate a hybrid model? Find out, Get in touch today. I’d love to help!