Updated / Thursday, 31 Oct 2024 

After a fundamental shift in working practices necessitated by the pandemic, many businesses are now contending with the challenge of employees returning to the workplace.  

Dave Kearney of HR BRIEF, an Honorary Fellow of the Employment & Recruitment Federation, looks at strategies to facilitate the transition, and the multifaceted benefits of staff engagement in a physical office setting.

COVID-19 transformed our perceptions of work and the traditional office environment.  What once seemed impossible; maintaining productivity while working from home, quickly morphed into a necessity for survival, for countless organisations.  Remote work became the new norm overnight, changing views on productivity, collaboration and work-life balance.

So, how do we create a welcoming atmosphere, and motivate those hesitant about returning to the office; while honouring the lessons gleaned from remote work?

Resistance to Return

Before jumping headfirst into coaxing employees back to the office, it’s essential to get a handle on potential reasons for hesitance, and to address them.

Many employees have grown comfortable with the flexibility and work-life balance that remote work presents.  With lengthy commutes a thing of the past, there is more time to spend with families and pursue personal interests.

Many believe they're more productive working from home, free from office distractions. There are mental health considerations too.  The uncertainty of the pandemic, possibly combined with an escape from uncomfortable workplace dynamics, may have left some apprehensive about an office return.

PLANNING A RETURN TO THE WORKPLACE

Communicate Openly and Transparently

Where encouraging a return to the workplace is deemed necessary for the business, effective communication is key.  Employers must avoid abrupt decisions or rigid deadlines.  Management should articulate the reasoning for a return, sharing the benefits for both the organisation and employees. Transparency regarding health and safety can alleviate concerns too.

Having a support system for employees to voice any apprehension is equally crucial, ensuring concerns are addressed thoughtfully and confidentially.

The Perks of In-Person Collaboration

Though remote work has advantages, it can lack the creativity and spontaneity of face-to-face interaction. Showcase the benefits of personal collaboration, like brainstorming, team-building activities, and the lovely informal chats over coffee, to remind staff of the unique value of being together.  Reference occasions where in-person collaboration sparked innovation and solutions.

A Flexible Return Plan

Recognise that employees have diverse comfort levels, and family obligations.  A phased return, allowing part-time office attendance, hybrid models, or staggered schedules, eases transition.

If your organisation hasn’t previously felt the need, now might be the time to implement flexi-time or a time-off-in-lieu policy, to cater for the varying needs of your team.

Enhance the Workplace Environment

Reimagine the physical workspace to help entice staff back! Thoughtfully designed offices prioritising comfort, collaboration, and employee well-being can make a workplace a haven. Consider investing in ergonomic furniture, new colours, inviting collaborative spaces and recreational areas. Employers can introduce welcome perks, like top-notch coffee machines and great catering facilities.

Employee Incentives

Well-placed incentives can motivate an office return. Simple treats at work, like complimentary lunch or snacks, to appealing offerings like bonuses or extra days off, ensure staff feel valued.

A Culture of Inclusion and Engagement

As employees return to offices, it’s paramount to focus on building an engaging and inclusive culture.  Invite employees into discussions about workplace changes, and actively seek feedback to create a collaborative atmosphere. When people feel valued and part of the process, they’re more likely to embrace changes.

Health and Wellness Programmes

The importance of employee well-being cannot be underestimated, and organisations should continue prioritising health initiatives during a return to the office. Health and wellness programmes, access to mental health resources, and opportunities for physical activities can foster a healthier workplace.  Show the team that their health is a top priority.

Technology

New technology can significantly enhance the employee experience and ease a return to the office. Tools like collaborative platforms, project management software and communication apps facilitate seamless collaboration, whether employees work in the office or remotely. Highlight how technology maintains connections and supports flexibility, to reassure staff their transition will be smooth.

WHY EMPLOYEES CAN BE BETTER IN THE WORKPLACE

Discussing the benefits of a workplace return reinforces the key advantages for organisations and their workforce:

1. Improved Collaboration and Innovation

The synergy from being physically present fosters stronger teamwork and camaraderie. In-person interaction can spark creative thinking and collaborative solutions, and spontaneous conversations can lead to innovative ideas.

2. Enhanced Company Culture

Physical office settings are cultural hubs. Face-to-face interactions forge stronger relationships, a sense of belonging, and increased loyalty to the business and colleagues.  

Good company culture notably influences talent recruitment, retention, and job satisfaction.

3. Productivity and Focus

While remote work is productive for many, an office environment is often better structured for focused work, minimising distraction, and dedicated spaces for specific tasks.

Returning to the office also helps maintain that necessary clear division between personal lives and work.

4. Strengthened Communication

Physical presence enhances communication by reducing misunderstandings. Non-verbal cues, like body language and tone, are critical in effective communication.  This can easily be lost in virtual settings or in written only communication, like email. 

5. Seamless Onboarding for New Employees

For newcomers who haven’t met the team in person, returning to the office can enhance the onboarding experience. It allows for mentorship, direct access to resources, and a better understanding of company culture.

Employees returning to the workplace is about more than just filling seats; it’s about enhancing collaboration, productivity, and employee satisfaction. The aim should be to foster a vibrant environment where employees feel motivated to engage with colleagues, and contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s success.

By addressing employee concerns, implementing thoughtful strategies, and focusing on the benefits of in-person work, organisations can cultivate an inviting atmosphere, easing the transition back to the office.

Dave Kearney, Managing Director of HR BRIEF, is an Honorary Fellow of Ireland’s Employment and Recruitment Federation (ERF).  The voluntary 
organisation establishes and maintains standards and codes of practice for the recruitment industry.  With over 220 member companies across Ireland, 
the ERF promotes training, information and advice, as well as member’ services such as employee vetting, and input on national and EU policy and 
industry issues impacting the labour market.

For Information:   

SHARON BANNERTON ¦ Managing Director, BANNERTON ¦ Mobile: + 353 87 673 1100 ¦ Email: Sharon@BANNERTON.ie