Revitalising the Workplace: Optimising the Workplace Experience People Want to Enjoy

Organisations are settling into new hybrid working patterns and now face with the challenge of attracting people back to the office to achieve future operational strategies. This provides companies with the opportunity to create an environment that fosters engagement, wellbeing, and retention. To make the workplace a commute-worthy destination organisations must optimise the employee experience, here’s how: 

1. Create an Engaging Environment

The office should be more than just a place to work; it should be an inspiring and dynamic space that motivates employees. Incorporate your culture and brand within the space. Include elements of biophilic design, such as natural light, greenery, and outdoor areas, to create a welcoming and rejuvenating atmosphere. Consider adding amenities like coffee bars, lounge areas, and recreational facilities to encourage socialisation and relaxation. 

2. Offer Activity-Based Workspaces

Recognise that one size does not fit all when it comes to workspace preferences. Provide a variety of work environments, including open-plan areas for collaboration, quiet zones for focused work, and various open collaboration options. Empower employees to choose the workspace that best suits their needs for any given task. 

3. Prioritise Wellness

Promote employee wellness by ensuring the environment is optimal in terms of air quality, temperature, and lighting. You can also consider offering on-site fitness facilities, wellness programs, and mental health resources. People should be able to relax and recharge in comfortable areas designed to supports their wellness.  

4. Facilitate Collaboration and Connection

Your workspace should serve as a hub for collaboration, creativity, and connection. Foster a culture of teamwork by providing technology-enabled meeting rooms, collaboration tools, and spaces designed for brainstorming and ideation. Encourage spontaneous interactions and serendipitous encounters that spark innovation and build camaraderie among employees. 

5. Embrace Technology

Leverage technology to enhance the office experience and streamline day-to-day operations. Implement smart office solutions, such as digital signage, IoT-enabled devices, and workplace apps, to improve communication, productivity, and efficiency. Invest in high-speed internet, video conferencing equipment, and other technological infrastructure to support remote collaboration and hybrid work models. 

6. Offer Perks and Benefits

Make coming to the office a positive experience by offering enticing perks and benefits. This could include subsidised meals, commuter benefits, on-site childcare, and discounts for local amenities and services. Create a sense of purpose around being in the office by hosting special events, workshops, and social gatherings.

7. Determine Where Tasks are Performed Best

Recognise that certain tasks may be best performed remotely, while others benefit from in-person interaction. Clearly communicate which tasks fall into each category and the expectations surrounding them, so employees understand the guidelines and the reason behind them.  

8. Lead by Example

Demonstrate your commitment to the office experience by leading by example. Be visible and accessible to employees, engage in face-to-face interactions, and actively participate in office events and activities. Show your enthusiasm for the workplace as an essential part of your organisation's culture and success. 

In conclusion, optimising the workplace experience is essential for supporting people in the office and reinvigorating the spirit of collaboration and connection. By creating an engaging environment, offering flexible workspaces, prioritising wellness, facilitating collaboration and connection, embracing technology, offering perks and benefits, determining where tasks are performed best, and leading by example, organisations can create an experience that attracts employees and fosters a sense of belonging and purpose.