Companies are increasingly placing return-to-office mandates, with a notable example being Amazon’s requirement for employees to work on-site five days a week. However, there’s a shift towards making offices more appealing to employees rather than enforcing attendance.
- Peldon Rose, experts in office design, conducted a survey of 1,000 UK office workers to understand factors that could attract them back to the office.
- The survey reveals that free refreshments, convenient parking, and additional meeting rooms are among the top amenities desired by employees.
- A significant number of employees desire more ergonomic and personalised workspaces to enhance productivity and comfort.
- Leeson Medhurst of Peldon Rose offers insights on transforming workplaces to become more inviting and conducive to employee satisfaction.
Companies are increasingly implementing return-to-office mandates, exemplified by Amazon’s requirement for employees to be present in the office five days a week. However, rather than taking a rigid approach, there’s a growing trend of enhancing office spaces to encourage voluntary attendance.
Peldon Rose, renowned for its expertise in office design and workplace strategy, surveyed 1,000 UK adults who work from the office at least one day a week. The survey aimed to identify what features could make the office environment more inviting.
Interestingly, the survey highlighted that 37% of UK employees prioritise free refreshments, such as snacks and coffee, as a means to boost their productivity. In marketing, advertising, and PR sectors, employees place particular value on this perk.
Moreover, convenient accessibility features such as car parking are deemed crucial by 37% of respondents, particularly outside London, while 31% of employees wish for more meeting rooms to facilitate collaboration.
The desire for a more ergonomic and personalised workplace is prevalent among employees. An office environment equipped with ergonomic furniture, secure personal storage, and opportunities for personalisation could significantly enhance appeal. Notably, 65% of employees currently lack access to personalised secure storage.
Additionally, amenities such as private kitchens and gym access are coveted by 27% and 25% of employees, respectively, reflecting a desire for a well-rounded workplace that supports both work and personal well-being.
Leeson Medhurst, Head of Strategy at Peldon Rose, underscores the significance of effective office space planning. He advises integrating vibrant colours, comfortable seating, and greenery to invigorate the workspace. Furthermore, engaging employees in feedback to align office design with their preferences is key to fostering a welcoming environment.
Creating a more engaging and personalised office space is essential to inspire employees to return voluntarily, enhancing both productivity and satisfaction.
