According to a new survey conducted by work management firm GoodShape by Ipsos, UK managers and HR leaders agree that new trends that have emerged from the pandemic era will still be needed as the world opens back up.
The findings revealed that two-thirds of respondents agreed that initiatives that are currently in place, such as wellness-oriented benefits, are “much needed.”
However, just 34% believe that policies like remote work initiatives will remain in place post-pandemic. Many respondents also predict that mental health programs will also be dialed back.
Despite employees consistently expressing the need for amenities and programs that help support their best work style, some leaders have ignored the lessons learned over the past two years. Employees now expect having flexibility, and without it, are emboldened to find a job that provides it.
“Employee wellbeing should always be a priority for businesses and not just within the context of a global pandemic,” said Gill Wetherill, head of people at financial advisory firm Progeny.
Although research indicates that benefits like remote working and mental health initiatives will continue to be offered in some form post-pandemic, business leaders that walk back on these perks may face issues retaining employees in the future.