That was a question we asked in a recent survey we posted on social media. Not surprisingly, most of the things employees thought were important before the pandemic, weren’t as important now. And that makes perfect sense since a large number of employees are still working remotely.
One thing we found that was surprising? Out of all the responses we received, 50% of those working from home are still doing that work from their kitchen or dining room table rather than at a desk or in a dedicated office. Not exactly the ideal locations when you’re trying to concentrate on your work without any distractions.
Of course, lack of space could be the reason for this workplace choice. But if that’s not the reason, this could be an opportunity for employers to provide these employees with a few perks by purchasing a desk, chair, storage or other office essentials to help them furnish a home office space. It’s a nice way to show your appreciation.
But what perk could employers provide to those who have no choice but to work on their kitchen or dining room table? Maybe share the cost for them to rent out a co-working space.
That’s not as crazy a suggestion as you might think. Since, our survey also uncovered the fact that 63% of all respondents who are remote employees also try to work at a co-working space, coffee shop, or some other outside location at least a few times a month.
Of course, all is not lost on getting employees back into the office — at least a few days a week anyway. According to our survey, 78% of all respondents still preferred a hybrid work solution. So it might be smart for employers to make sure that when they do come into the office, the environment is providing them with adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and other workspace options that make them feel as welcome and comfortable as possible. Maybe by making the office a more enticing option than working from their kitchen table, employers can coax more of them back in more often.
But what was the most important thing an employer could offer employees to increase their job satisfaction? It had nothing to do with where they worked. But more to do with how they worked. In fact, 100% of those who answered our survey questions stated that flexible work hours was the most important thing they wanted from their employers. So if you want happy employees, attract more, and keep them longer, flexible work schedules is definitely the first thing you should consider. At least that’s what they told us.
Has working from home stopped working for you?
Since 1995, Facility Planners (FPi) has turned hundreds of spaces all across Tennessee into inspiring working environments. Now we have used our expertise to turn our own space into one. It’s called le Purlieu at Facility Planners.
That’s French for “the neighborhood.” And that’s exactly what le Purlieu was designed to be. A neighborhood of collaboration, private office spaces, conference areas, and workspaces for individuals, creatives, startups, freelancers, and even businesses in need of additional employee space to scale. We offer a variety of options to fit any need or budget.
So, if working from home isn’t working out for you, welcome to the neighborhood at Facility Planners. le Purlieu is for you!