The future of the workplace - 3 important considerations.
What is the future of the workplace? In 2020 there has been a seismic shift in how we work, and our approach to working from home. Indeed, many are saying that the crisis has sped up what was going to happen anyway. Whether this is true or not, one thing's for certain - it's happened now and we have to respond.
Looking at how the attitudes to workspaces are going to change, and how people are responding to this 'new normal', we've put together 3 points to consider for when you're making that all-important return to the office. Read on below:1.The importance of an office
Just about every workplace consultant, HR managers, and others in the industry are united on one point - The office is not dead. We believe the office has never been more important, and that people are going to rely on the physical workspace just as much as they rely on technology.
Human beings need physical interaction with others, and, as this may now not be every day, we need spaces that promote face to face time and collaborative working. The future of the workplace is looking to be an important centre for interaction and team building, building trust, and cohesiveness throughout the team.
2. Attracting people
Some are wary of returning to the workplace, some prefer working from home, and some just can't wait to get back! However, the office needs to be an attractive and reassuring place to come to. This is more than making it safe with desk screens and sanitiser, and companies need to invest in their space to encourage people to start to come and collaborate. In many industries, collaborating on projects is a key part of the business process, and to lose this human element could have long term damaging consequences.
A great workspace also helps to attract top talent, helping businesses really have the edge when it comes to recruitment. Small changes to an office like painting walls, planting, and aquariums can all be great ways of adding some attractive elements into a space to help people respond to the workplace positively again.
3. Always connected
Whilst physical workspaces are great, we also need to recognise that the future of the workplace also includes a lot more home working than before. Companies need to make sure they have systems and software in place to handle remote working efficiently and effectively so customers don't experience a lack of customer service and connectivity from the company.
As with every business, customer service is a key part of the customer journey, and this cannot be impacted long term. We're now 6 months in, and people are getting tired of hearing the same old excuse. If you're in business, you should have found ways to overcome the communication issues by now!
If workers spend all day with limited connection to the company, this affects productivity and the mental wellness of the individuals, leading to decreasing performance and enthusiasm. Daily team meetings with all the team, both internal and remote, can really help the team bond at the beginning of each day. Companies need to ensure that employees have a good home working set up, including good facilities for video calling and a powerful internet connection.
We hope that has provided a small insight into the future of the workplace and how it's going to evolve. If companies see this as an opportunity to invest in their workforce, the resulting trust and cohesiveness built in the team will result in a much more engaged and productive workforce in the long term. As always, if you need a hand, or want a chat about any of the above - get in touch!