What will it take to convince employees to return to the office? Free coffee isn't enough

Enhancing the Return to Office Experience for Employees

In the ongoing effort to bring employees back to the office, landlords and tenant occupiers are exploring innovative ways to make the experience more appealing. The days of simply offering free coffee and snacks are long gone, as the focus shifts towards creating a work environment that employees truly want to be a part of, rather than feeling obligated to return to the office.

With major banks and government bodies mandating a return to the office, there is a growing emphasis on enhancing the workplace to attract employees. Employers are looking beyond traditional perks and amenities, considering options such as free parking, flexible start times, and unique incentives to make the transition back to the office more enticing.

Cal Jungwirth, from talent recruitment firm Robert Half, highlights the importance of location and commute times in influencing employees’ decisions to return to the office. Offering free parking, for example, can be a significant draw for employees who may otherwise incur high costs for parking.

Brett Miller, CEO of Canderel, has introduced the Okkto brand to make the office experience more engaging for employees. Beyond the typical office setup, Okkto offers a range of activities and services, from concierge services to group walks and guest speakers, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for employees.

Flexibility is also key in attracting employees back to the office. Jungwirth suggests options like staggered work hours and condensed work weeks can be major attractions for employees. The Conference Board of Canada’s survey found that 34.4% of employees value flexible scheduling options, indicating a strong preference for autonomy in their work schedules.

Sharon Desousa, president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada, emphasizes the importance of remote work as a key incentive for employees. With productivity gains seen in remote work settings, many employees have come to value the flexibility and convenience of working from home. Desousa suggests that remote work is the future of work and urges employers to consider the benefits of allowing employees to work remotely.

As the debate continues on the future of work environments, it is clear that employers and landlords must adapt to meet the evolving needs and preferences of employees. By offering innovative perks, flexible scheduling options, and a welcoming work environment, employers can make the return to the office a more positive and rewarding experience for employees.

• Email: gmarr@postmedia.com