The Optimum Workplace Trends

The pandemic tossed almost everything up in the air—including the traditional workplace model and schedule. Now, employers across the country are grappling with maintaining productivity while still attracting and retaining top talent.

If you’re thinking through benefits, don’t overlook the incredible appeal of a hybrid workplace. The good news is it doesn’t have to be “all or nothing.” In fact, a blend of in-person and remote work may be the sweet spot for many employers.

We pulled together a few insights and stats so you can get a feel for what employees are looking for and what employers—large and small—are doing to accommodate changing workplace needs.

• Employees prefer options. 86% of workers1 say they would prefer to continue working from home, at least part-time, after offices reopen. Additionally, when searching for a job, 47% explore2 whether a company has a remote work policy.

• Flexibility fuels retention—and loyalty. 17% of employees3 said they would consider quitting their job if they were required to return to the office five days per week. 80% of people4 said they would be more loyal if their employer offered flexible work.

• Work from home improves mental health. 64.4% of workers5 with the ability to work from home said their mental health improved as a result of their working arrangement.

• Flexible scheduling reduces employee absenteeism. Seasonal illnesses stay at bay as unwell employees are empowered and encouraged to stay home.

• Hybrid is ideal. However, workforces do best with a blend of at home and in-person office work. While 100% remote workforces have financial and recruiting advantages, they may suffer from lower morale, relational challenges, and decreased innovation. 6

• Adapting takes planning. Many employers went remote last year without much thought. As these changes become permanent, companies must think through everything from HR policies and technology to training leaders and employees to collaborate and engage entirely virtually and from the office.

• Employees want to matter. According to GlassDoor, 7 three factors matter most for worker satisfaction, none of which depend on maintaining in-person offices: a compelling company mission, transparent and empathetic leaders, and clear advancement opportunities.

One more thing to note: don’t fret productivity. Three major studies (JD Edwards, American Express, and Compaq) showed remote workers are between 15% and 45% more productive8 than their office counterparts.

The workplace is changing at record speed, and it’s hard to keep up. Hang in there!

1 COVID-19 Vaccines Should be Required Before Returning to the Office, Say 70% of Employees - Glassdoor Blog

2 Remote Work Can Bring Benefits, but Attitudes Are Divided (indeed.com)

3 COVID-19 Vaccines Should be Required Before Returning to the Office, Say 70% of Employees - Glassdoor Blog

4 State of Remote Work 2020 (owllabs.com)

5 60% of People Have Better Mental Health Working Remote - UC Today

6 Remote Work Challenges & Solutions [2021 Updated] - Springworks Blog

7 Glassdoor Job Search | Find the job that fits your life

8 Costs and Benefits - Global Workplace Analytics

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