The workplace will never be the same as society reels from the cultural and societal impact of the pandemic. However, this is not the first disruption to impact the commercial real estate industry.
Still, the standout difference with this transformation is how the workplace is perceived. It is no longer an office to get things done; now, workers are concerned about their wellbeing, how they collaborate with their coworkers and the amount of flexibility they will be receiving.
Remote working has allowed colleagues to understand each other on a deeper level as they get a look into their home life through video calls. Although in-person interaction is limited nowadays, these types of connections are vital to supporting workplace culture.
But employers are still finding ways to bring workers back into the office, and with that comes the need for connecting with one another on a more personal level. It is essential for business leaders to learn what employees need to navigate these unprecedented times, and that could mean adopting more flexible work arrangements.
Offering the ability to work in-office and at home can help accommodate the preferences of workers at any time, keeping them satisfied and allowing them to maintain a high-level of productivity.
Although working from home has countless benefits, the perks of an office should not be underestimated. Humans have an innate need for social connection with colleagues, and that can be difficult to replicate virtually.