By Tom Mitchell, Business Developer, Foodles
More than four years after employees were encouraged to work remotely, many continue to do so. While some companies are content to operate with their staff working from home, others actively seek to bring employees back on-site, using mandated in-office days or offering perks as incentives.
Working closely with office and HR professionals, I frequently hear discussions about encouraging employees to return to the workplace on a more regular basis. This topic is often a point of debate within businesses and widely discussed on social media platforms like LinkedIn.
When discussing remote work, it’s important to acknowledge that those who have the option to work from home are in a position of privilege. Professions such as teaching, medicine, or factory work often require individuals to leave home daily to fulfill their roles. This isn’t to suggest that jobs capable of being done remotely shouldn’t be, but it’s essential to recognise this distinction.
In my experience, companies that encourage rather than mandate office attendance tend to achieve the best outcomes. These businesses focus on demonstrating the value of in-person collaboration and encouraging positive workplace cultures.
So, what strategies do these companies use?
1. Value face-to-face interaction
There’s little benefit in spending time commuting only to sit in back-to-back calls or perform tasks that could easily be done remotely. In-person meetings, however, can be incredibly productive and impactful. Companies that designate specific on-site days for teams to collaborate in person create opportunities for meaningful interaction, freeing up time for remote work on other days.
2. Be flexible
Some employees prefer to start early and leave early to avoid rush hour, while others are more productive at different times of the day. Recognising and accommodating these preferences can significantly reduce barriers to employees returning to the office.
3. Prioritise training and development
Training is a crucial factor in staff retention, especially for those in the early stages of their careers. In-person training sessions offer significant advantages over remote alternatives, encouraging engagement and skill-building in a more dynamic environment. Providing these opportunities is essential for both personal and professional growth.
4. Improve food and beverage options
One of the benefits of remote work is the convenience of eating on your own schedule without the hassle of waiting in line for an overpriced sandwich. Offering employees access to subsidised, chef-prepared meals that align with their work schedules can be a game-changer. For example, Foodles customers using our smart fridge solutions have reported higher staff satisfaction, increased productivity, and reduced resistance to returning to the office.
If you would like to learn more about our about our Foodles smart fridges, contact – thomas.mitchell@foodles.co
