Employees Want A More Flexible Office

A Cushman & Wakefield and CoreNet Global survey has revealed that while flexibility remains a high priority for many workers, the majority do not want full-time remote working arrangements.

Pre-pandemic, 59% of respondents said their company’s approach was office-first, but that number has dropped to 10%. Now, respondents have indicated that they would prefer a more hybrid approach.

“We see a real opportunity for smart employers to transform the workplace experience with flexible options for employees by offering a variety of locations and experiences to support convenience, functionality and well-being,” said Despina Katsikakis, global leader of Cushman & Wakefield’s Total Workplace Global Lead.

Additionally, 48% of respondents in the Americas said they would consider adjusting their remote working policies, while 22% stated they have already implemented changes.

With this, it is clear that the office will still play a significant role in how companies operate. For instance, 81% of respondents said the office was necessary for casual conversations, while 75% stated it was the best tool to nurture company culture.

But before employees will return to the office, the way they are arranged will have to undergo some major changes. Respondents expressed wanting a workspace that pivots away from assigned seating and transitions into a more flexible, collaborative environment.