News in the Channel - January 2023

WORKSPACES

A new sense of belonging Offices within an organisation should feel different to each other, and promote the local and unique culture of its location within the office space. By incorporating a range of decorative pieces that highlight local history or beliefs, or specific items that make a particular city or town unique, the office itself will become a more familiar and welcoming space. Staff can feel the comforts of home without actually being at home. It is this familiarity that will create a sense of belonging and foster an environment where people work at their best. Employees will also gain a better understanding of the values of the businesses and how it functions. This familiarity can be furthered within the office space by making small changes, such as more open areas to encourage spontaneous meetings, or whiteboards in public spaces, in case a creative idea comes to mind. Moreover, creating office spaces that are culturally familiar allows for managers and leaders within an organisation to work, inspire and motivate from anywhere.

Zoom rooms are specially made to engage staff with those in the office and at home “ ”

According to mental health charity Mind, 74% of people aged 18-24 said their mental health had declined during lockdown, and this can partially be attributed to them not having access to a designated workspace. However, by encouraging staff into the office, they are able to create separation between their work life and home environment. They have the option to work in a welcoming office environment that caters to all of their needs. This is vital for younger team members to be able to maintain their wellbeing and to truly engage with their new colleagues. The workplace of the future By providing staff with flexibility, dedicated areas, such as wellness and training rooms, as well as promoting a positive employee culture, teams can become more motivated and successful. As a result, businesses are rewarded with greater success and a workforce that is dedicated to driving results and delivering the best possible outcomes. Moreover, with businesses in the midst of geo- political conflicts and new inflationary pressures, the leaders of companies have a responsibility to provide an office space in which people are encouraged and safe to work in. This is the key for business success within the future of work.

Importance of a positive employee culture Staff shouldn’t feel like they are being forced to come into the office as this can create a negative mindset where employees associate work with something they don’t want to do. Instead, employees should feel enticed to go into the office and, more importantly, they should be able to feel like they have made that choice themselves. This a subtle distinction, but the effects are significant, and it means that employees will be more likely to arrive at work with a positive attitude. Organisations should also cater for every employee, especially younger staff members who are at the beginning of their careers, who might still be living with parents, in houses of multiple occupancy or in small apartments. These young professionals, who don’t yet have the luxury of being able to work from a study or office at home, might have to find alternative places, such as their beds or even dining tables, in order to work from home.

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