Steelcase, a global designer, and manufacturer of office furniture, conducted a study that emphasizes the significance of the office in an organization’s strategy. Remote work and higher salaries are crucial but insufficient for lasting sustainable change.
Leaders should prioritize work experience and the workplace, as they are essential for meeting employees’ needs and creating resilient organizations during times of change and uncertainty.
The study collected data from 11 countries and included 4,986 participants with diverse backgrounds. It provided valuable insights into the changing needs of employees in the current work reality.
The research emphasized the importance of the workplace in helping leaders tackle complex challenges.
According to the study, employees who prefer working from the office show significant advantages. They are 33% more engaged, 30% more connected to the company’s culture, and 20% more productive.
Additionally, they are 9% less likely to leave their current positions.
Among the employees surveyed, 87% reported spending some time working from the office.
However, a more significant number of respondents indicated a preference for working from home.
The Steelcase study identified five critical employee needs: a sense of belonging to boost engagement; increased control over work arrangements for greater satisfaction; balanced support for in-office and remote workers to enhance productivity; comfort for overall well-being; and addressing safety concerns to create a positive work environment.
The report highlights key employee needs in the modern workplace.
Work From Home/Unsplash
Most (64%) employees value hybrid collaboration spaces facilitating seamless teamwork between in-person and remote workers.
Privacy is equally important, with 61% of employees emphasizing the need for designated spaces for focused tasks and confidential discussions. Additionally, 52% of respondents stressed the significance of informal spaces for encouraging meaningful connections with colleagues.
To adapt to the trend of hybrid meetings, 62% of employees prefer single-person enclaves for smooth virtual interactions.
Furthermore, 52% of people value the flexibility that adaptable furniture offers by meeting their preferences and needs. Lastly, 47% of employees advocate for sustainable furniture, aligning with the increasing commitment to eco-friendly practices in the workplace.
Improving the office experience, addressing those with no specific preferences, and winning over employees who prefer working from home can yield a substantial return on investment.
These efforts increase engagement, productivity, connection to the organization, and employee retention.
Notably, 55% of people are likelier to choose an assigned workspace over additional remote workdays. At home, 70% of individuals have a dedicated workspace, while 51% utilize open-plan office spaces.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn