Remote, hybrid, in office … What is coming next for future of work?

The hybrid work has become the dominant model. Companies realize they need to shift their policies or risk losing out on talent, while employees weigh whether it is worth trading days offsite versus getting more face time at home with family members.

According to the latest data from Future Forum’s latest pulse survey, more than 50% percent of officer workers are doing some sort of combination between remote job sites like working from home (WFH) combined with office work.

The increase in the number of hybrid work arrangements is a reflection on how companies are adapting to changing lifestyles.

Future of In-Office Work

The role of the office is changing as we enter an era where employees can work remotely. As major companies have done away with physical offices, there has been a shift towards more virtual working arrangements.

A large number of workforces in the tech industry expected their normal place of worker to be present at "their" desk during weekdays – i.e., the office – in the future.

There's little surprise that knowledge workers are most likely to feel remote working is here for the long haul.

These employees see little value in commuting elsewhere just so they could do what could easily be accomplished at home instead.

This effect is not only seen by big tech companies but also smaller businesses alike who have funneled billions of dollars into building fantastical workspaces designed specifically around attracting talent through different amenities such as gyms or coffee shops.

Therefore, the future of office real estate is largely uncertain as companies move to a remote-first model.

For example, Salesforce and Spotify have indicated they will be moving their workers into shared spaces temporarily while also considering the logistics for long term arrangements that may include more flexible hours or remote work options.

Many employers are currently assessing how best this new arrangement can serve both employee preferences (such as those who want flexibility) alongside business needs.

Some businesses already utilize permanent hybrid models like these where employees share space with other firms yet maintain controls over certain aspects.

The world of work is changing and so are the ways in which people can find employment.

In 2021, UK-based bank HSBC announced that it would be cutting its office space by 40% as part of a move to embrace hybrid working styles.

Meanwhile, some fellow banks, such as Santander and Nationwide also closing branches or rethinking their workspaces in order for employees who want greater flexibility when they arrive at work each day.

This suggests that there may always remain something new about this role no matter what form it takes!

The Office...isn't dead!

Whether they are working from home or cafes, more employees are choosing to work in locations that better suit them.

This doesn't mean the office is done. Instead, companies have started reimagining how their space can align with what workers need for productivity and comfort as well as balancing this new way of doing business while still meeting financial goals.

In 2021, there was one common trend noted by CEOs across industries: downsized physical spaces occupied solely by desks replaced often times with virtual environments.

These days, the office is not just a place to work but also home. With flexible spaces that encourage collaboration and networking between employees.

There is also an emphasis on open floor plans with breakout areas for meetings or brainstorming sessions in addition to modern videoconferencing tech.

Some companies have gone one step further by installing fitness programs including yoga classes alongside fully stocked cocktail bars so workers can stay healthy while enjoying their jobs.

Remote working allows employees to become more productive. It is also better for mental health. Permanent work-from home options make people happier even if they take a pay cut.

Source: Bradford Jacobs