Planning on bringing staff back into the office in 2022? Even if this is as part of a hybrid work model, it is important that you take steps to attract employees back and make it a positive. Many people have gotten used to WFH during COVID-19, so it could be a challenge that businesses need to prepare for. Read on for a few of the best ways to attract employees back to the office in 2022.
Office Improvements
First, a great way to welcome staff back is with a new and better office environment. Stylish and practical furniture can be easily sourced from office furniture suppliers that can transform the office. You can also decorate, add plants and wall prints and give the office a fresh coat of paint. This will add some excitement and stop people from feeling that things are going back to how they were before.
Increase Cleanliness
It is understandable that many are still concerned about COVID-19, especially with the new Omicron variant. It is important to take action to protect your staff and public health as a whole, so office cleanliness needs to be a priority with regular professional cleaning. You should also provide easy access to cleaning products, hand sanitiser and masks for staff.
Offer Flexibility
You might struggle if you suddenly start asking people to come into the office Mon-Fri 9-5. This is why it is a good idea to offer some flexibility with a hybrid model – this can keep everyone happy and you might find that it helps to boost business productivity.
Prioritize Wellbeing
The pandemic has affected everyone and businesses need to do all that they can to support staff. One way that you can do this is to prioritize wellbeing by providing spaces where staff can relax, take a break and (safely) socialize with other staff. A break room with games, sofas and coffee tables could make a big difference.
Highlight the Perks of Office Life
You might also want to remind people of the perks of returning to the office. While WFH has its benefits, many have missed office life due to the opportunities to socialise, the separation between work and home, air-con and heating and having the office tidied and cleaned for you.
These are a few of the best ways to attract your employee back in the new year. Many businesses plan to start bringing staff back at least as part of a hybrid model, but you need to frame this as a positive and take steps that will make staff feel excited about returning to work. This will make the transition much easier for all and help everyone to see this as a fresh slate and not simply returning to how things were before.
