What Does the Post-Pandemic Office Look Like?
The last couple of years have forced businesses to change their day-to-day office experience to a virtual one. While some businesses have chosen to keep their newly adopted virtual experience, many are transitioning back into the office. But what does the post-pandemic office look like?
Mobility
Employees have become accustomed to the flexibility of a virtual workday. Instead of sitting at an assigned workstation for hours, they’re bouncing between their home office, kitchen table, and their sofa. Some are even working from their deck or balcony! Businesses need to adapt their office to offer a variety of workspaces. This can be achieved by incorporating collaborative workspaces that offer employees with an alternative to their assigned workstation.
Natural Sunlight
Not only have employees become accustomed to a mobile workday, but they have become accustomed to accessing natural sunlight. While installing large windows isn’t feasible for every business, there are several alternatives for incorporating natural sunlight in an office. Businesses can take advantage of their property by adding an outdoor patio space for employees to bring their workday outdoors. Businesses can also use plants and natural materials in their office to create the illusion of a sunny, outdoor environment — regardless of your outdated office window coverings.
Privacy
Additionally, employees have become accustomed to their privacy. Many employees have been working independently with minimal distractions; however, transitioning back into the office provides a different set of distractions that can interfere with an employee’s workday. Prevent distractions with private call rooms or tall panels.
The modern employee has different needs than they once had. They desire an office environment that provides the opportunity for mobility, natural sunlight, and privacy. Incorporating the following opportunities will not only create a better in-office experience for employees, but it will boost employee moral and productivity.