The classic workplace in the office seemed to be an outdated model. During the pandemic, many people had to switch to working from home — and then recognized its advantages, which they no longer want to give up today. But now, slowly but steadily, the office is experiencing a revival. Because the back-to-office culture offers numerous benefits for companies and employees alike.
Key facts
- Hybrid work is the new standard in the majority of companies. This gives the office a new status.
- Because in a changing model, the office becomes a place of productivity & social exchange.
- Companies & managers must set concrete incentives to create cross-departmental synergy effects in order to shape the return to the office.
- In addition to benefits, companies should above all create a productive working atmosphere.
The importance of going back to the office
The new standard among working models is hybrid work. Returning to the office is of great importance for companies as it offers numerous benefits. Direct personal exchange promotes creativity, strengthens team spirit and enables more effective cooperation.
Recent studies show that, in particular, the generation of ideas and creativity are significantly strengthened by teamwork in the office. In addition, the office can serve as a place of identification with the company and the corporate culture strengthen. To take advantage of these benefits, companies should develop targeted strategies to get their employees back to hybrid office to bring.
Hybrid leadership by supervisors such as team leaders or management is therefore becoming increasingly important. Because they are key players when it comes to using synergy effects and interdepartmental exchange.
Back to office: How can employees return to the office?
So that hybrid working model With all the benefits really successful, companies must develop an active back-to-office strategy:
Flexibility instead of random rules
Many companies use inflexible rules to dictate to their employees when they should return to the office. This rule is usually used in a hybrid work policy or company-wide in Operational agreement carved in stone. However, these rules are anything but flexible.
In order to make full use of the synergies, companies should rely on concrete incentives to bring employees back to the office.
Creating a pleasant working environment
For employees back to the office To attract, it is important to create a comfortable working environment. Companies can invest in ergonomics by providing modern office furniture and equipment. The individual workplace design It should therefore be reconsidered and the office adapted to the new requirements. Height-adjustable tables or multiple screens can be incentives for employees to come back to the office more often. Especially if they don't have this equipment in their home office.
Establish a modern office concept
The productive working atmosphere also includes a modern office concept. Designing and offering common areas, break areas and relaxation areas can make the office more attractive. In addition, the office should be adapted to the individual needs of employees, for example through flexible workplace design and opportunities for personal development.
Plan meetings & projects strategically
The return to the office is characterized above all by the well-known “short official route”. Meetings or larger projects in smaller teams can be completed wonderfully in the office. It is important that the office meets these requirements. Therefore, there should be enough meeting rooms or other places of retreat in the office.
Other incentives and benefits
Incentives and rewards play an important role in motivating employees to return to the office. By offering attractive incentives, companies can increase employee interest and willingness. Here are a few specific strategies that companies can use:
- Discounts in public transport: Companies can offer their employees discounted or free public transport tickets. This makes the daily commute easier and reduces potential costs or inconveniences associated with commuting.
- Subsidies for meals & fitness services: In order to promote employee wellbeing and offer them an additional incentive, companies can provide subsidies for meals or fitness services in the office. This shows the company's commitment to the health and well-being of employees.
- Team building events & social activities: To emphasize the social aspect of returning to the office, companies can organize teambuildings. This enables employees to network personally and strengthen a sense of community. Such events may include joint lunches, after-work activities or team building trips.
