The US is experiencing an uptick in coronavirus cases as states move forward with reopening strategies. Now, as the country surpasses 185,000 deaths and nearly 6 million confirmed cases, companies may need to rethink what it means to “return to normal.”
Large technology companies like Google have preeminently announced they would be allowing employees to work from home until at least 2021, while Apple revealed it would be requiring temperature checks and limited capacity for office reentry.
While the reality that we may never work the same can be daunting, it may be comforting to think that the pandemic as a catalyst of this change, not the source. Experts on the future of work have long predicted the shift to a more flexible, remote workforce, but it happened quicker than anticipated.
So how can we businesses prepare for the long-term and accommodate the evolving needs of both employees and clients?
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First, it is vital to understand that a work environment is not one-size-fits all. Workers require varying spaces, whether it be a private office for individual work or a conference room for brainstorming sessions. Not only will the physical workspace itself be flexible, but benefits and hours will be too.
Additionally, the implementation of technology will be crucial to operating in a modern workplace. With many companies opting for a hybrid work arrangement, the use of technology-fuelled satellite offices outside of major cities will serve as a place that nurtures culture and productivity.
