How to Encourage Employees Back to the Office
By: Leslie Shaw
Lack of connection with colleagues is the top concern for employees working remotely, according to The Conference Board’s Job Satisfaction Survey. While returning to the office in a hazmat suit might be a drastic measure to get your teams back into the office, consider these realistic strategies to make coming back to the office a safe, engaging, and motivating experience for employees.
1) Compassion
You want to make employees feel cared for and appreciated when they get back. Honor and acknowledge the challenges your team has experienced during these past two years – triumphs and personal sacrifices.
2) Collaboration
Working together boosts productivity and fosters and sustains trust – a critical element in the workplace. Plan tasks that need team collaboration and interdependent work while people are on-site.
3) Creativity
When people are physically together, they tend to brainstorm more efficiently and generate creative solutions. Encourage your team to meet often to discuss challenges, new ideas, and lessons learned.
4) Community
All work and no play is not fun for anyone. Take time to engage your team with informal gatherings and opportunities for fun. Host a weekly team game, sponsor a team lunch, bring treats, etc.
5) Communication
Show your vulnerability and ask the following questions:
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What do you like most and least about working remotely?
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What do you like most about working in the office?
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How do you think we can make working on-site better?
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How can I help you succeed in our new work environment?
Employee satisfaction and improved productivity happen when teams work together on-site at the same time. Togetherness eliminates biases, improves career and promotion equity, and promotes diversity. Regardless of which model your firm offers – remote, in the office, or hybrid, make an intentional effort to stay engaged with your team, keep the lines of communication open and flowing, and deliver on all your promises.
Leadership Solutions That Drive Organizational Success
Whether you are looking for ways to get your employees back in the office or need help recruiting diverse talent with experience leading a hybrid workforce, we can partner with your organization to implement leadership solutions that help drive organizational success.
EFL Practice Leader, Leslie Shaw, can answer all your questions and tell you more. Connect with Leslie today!