In the midst of an escalating cost-of-living crisis, businesses face a growing challenge in persuading employees to return to the office.
- A notable 41% of hybrid workers are motivated by the prospect of free food to return to office settings.
- Research suggests 46% of hybrid workers find their current workspace unsuitable for the hybrid model.
- Other incentives such as modern hardware, pet-friendly spaces, and flexible hours are influencing return-to-office decisions.
- Employers are urged to adapt workspaces to meet evolving employee needs to retain talent.
In the current economic climate marked by a rising cost-of-living, businesses are grappling with the challenge of bringing employees back to the office. A significant finding from recent research shows that a substantial 41% of hybrid workers would be motivated to return to the office for the benefit of free food and drinks. This suggests that relatively simple incentives can have a considerable impact on employee attendance.
The survey reveals that nearly half (46%) of hybrid workers feel their workspaces are not designed to support a hybrid working model and require modernisation. This sentiment underscores the necessity for office environments to evolve alongside changing work patterns and employee expectations.
Further insights from the study highlight that 21% of respondents would feel encouraged to return if the promise of better hardware and IT equipment was met. Moreover, 18% expressed interest in pet-friendly offices, while 15% would appreciate more greenery like plants or flowers in the workplace. Such diverse preferences indicate that employers need to consider varied approaches to enhance employee satisfaction.
Interestingly, research conducted with approximately 2,000 hybrid workers also outlines how current adaptations in workspaces manifest. Reductions in desk numbers, the adoption of hot-desking, and the creation of private and collaborative spaces are some notable changes being made, as reported by participants. This reflects a shift towards more flexible and adaptable work environments.
Additionally, over half of the hybrid workforce expresses a desire for the removal of traditional 9-5 working hours in favour of more flexible scheduling. This reflects an increasing demand for work-life balance and adaptability in working hours, which employers are having to address.
Industry experts stress the importance of redesigning workspaces to align with employee requirements and preferences. As articulated by Jacqueline Bird from Crown Workspace, focusing on modernising office spaces is critical to keeping employees engaged and ensuring that the workspace aligns with the ways it is currently utilized, mainly for collaboration and social interactions.
Kate Palmer from Peninsula highlights that investing in workplace improvements, despite being perceived as costly, can yield substantial benefits by enhancing employee retention and recruitment. In a competitive labour market, such improvements not only make the office more appealing but can ultimately reduce recruitment costs.
As businesses navigate the complexities of modern work, adapting workplace environments to meet employee expectations is vital for maintaining engagement and competitive advantage.
