Navigating the return-to-office challenge can be difficult. Most employees prefer the flexibility of working remotely.
Many employers are enforcing return-to-office mandates to maintain employee engagement. However, getting employees on board remains challenging.
Fortunately, employers can take steps to navigate the return-to-office challenge to maintain employee engagement. These methods can help.
Follow these guidelines to navigate the return-to-office challenge to maintain employee engagement.
Highlight the Return-to-Office Benefits
Most employers support returning to the office because of the opportunities for employee connection. In-person interactions more effectively support collaboration and feelings of belonging than virtual or phone-based interactions. As a result, in-person interactions help strengthen team cohesion and company culture.
Employees who work at the office have increased opportunities for skill development and career growth than employees who work remotely. For instance, onsite employees can use teaching moments throughout the day to enhance their knowledge, skills, and experience. As a result, these employees can improve their performance and earn promotions more easily than remote employees.
Embrace a Hybrid Work Model
Overcome the return-to-office challenge by compromising with a hybrid work model. Letting employees work onsite for a few days and remotely for a few days each week supports flexibility, control over work hours, and work-life integration.
Communicate clear expectations for schedules, communication methods, and work completion for hybrid employees. Creating structure helps maintain employee engagement, performance, and productivity.
Prioritize Communication
Emphasize the importance of ongoing communication in a hybrid work environment. Regularly connecting with team members helps maintain employee engagement.
Ensure hybrid employees have relevant technology to maintain communication. Examples include:
- Project management tools and workflows to streamline communication and collaboration.
- Remote communication apps, video conferencing software, and related tools.
- Software that supports hybrid work models, such as hoteling software and office capacity management tools to book parking spaces, desks, and rooms.
- Software, tools, and technology that support decentralized ways of working, such as cloud computing and file and document management.
Managers should regularly check in with their employees to see how they are doing and whether they have questions or need support. They also can ask for constructive feedback to improve the hybrid work experience. Implementation of the best ideas helps elevate employee engagement.
Do You Need Help with Navigating the Return-to-Office Challenge?
HireCall can provide you with guidance and support to navigate the return-to-office challenge. Contact us to start the process today.
