Coming out of lockdown – A return to the office or not?

As the Nation is steadily taking steps towards easing out of lockdown, many businesses are contemplating the return to office working for their employees.

Working more flexibly, including homeworking, is not a new concept. The statutory right for all employees with at least 26 weeks’ service to request flexible working in the UK has been available since 2014. However, in March last year we were forced to do business very differently and for many, homeworking became the new norm.

Employers now have a decision to make – revert back to the traditional, pre-lockdown ways of working, or develop a more flexible approach? If lockdown has taught us anything, it is that in order to survive, we must adapt and diversify!

An engaging employer will consult with their workforce before any decision is made. It is important to understand your employees’ views … their fears, desires & ideas. There are many considerations and impacts on employees, such as less commuting and being able to better balance work/life, through to feelings of isolation and lack of support.

The general view is that the way in which office-based work is done going forward will move towards a hybrid model. In essence, this will involve working time being split between the office and home. Employers should consider what work needs to be done collaboratively and what doesn’t. The purpose of the office could become a collaborative hub – a place where colleagues come together to brainstorm, have creative discussions, problem-solving etc.

Whatever ways of working are adopted going forward in your business, employers will be wise to remember that this is a journey and you should remain open to continue to learn about what works for your business and your workforce.