As we continue to return to the office after the COVID-induced lockdown, technology will undoubtedly be at the heart of every workplace. From enhanced communication to faster processes, companies are looking to make the workplace safer and deliver a better product to their customers.
Of course, it’s more than just the realization that large gatherings, such as trade shows or conferences, can spread the virus, but that many things that have traditionally been done offline can actually be done remotely or digitally — often even more efficiently.
Giant organizations, such as Google and Apple, have been ahead of the curve to set the tone for office reentry, requiring temperature checks, limiting building and elevator capacities, and more. While this may sound unnerving, that’s only if you’re not focusing on the big picture.
While it’s true that we will likely never work in the same ways again, it’s important to keep in mind that the COVID pandemic isn’t necessarily the cause of this, but rather a catalyst. We were already heading toward a new style of workplace — this is just what pushed us to make the move.
Dynamic Work
The future of the workplace was already poised to evolve to meet the changing demands of the workforce. Remote work has increased in popularity, not to mention the fact that changing societal demands, such as rising costs of living, have made a flexible workforce more important than ever.
Smart companies are taking this time to plan long-term for the future workforce of the post-pandemic world. This dynamic work will shape what reentry to the workplace looks like. But how?
Flexible Working Hours and Customizable Benefits
In this new, dynamic work environment, working hours are flexible to meet the demands of the changing workforce. Long gone are the traditional 9-to-5 work hours; instead, work hours are fluid for working parents, employees working from different time zones, and more. This also allows people to work in the hours when they feel most productive, leading to a more efficient and fulfilling experience.
Also, benefits packages will no longer be one-size-fits-all. Rather, benefits will be tailored to the individual employee or contributor, who will be able to pick and choose which benefits they prefer and what fits their specific needs and life stage, such as mental health, fitness, and overall wellness.
Offices Powered by the Latest Technologies
The workplace will be made of a hybrid workforce, with some people working on-site and others working remotely. Offices will adapt to meet this new model. For now, this may look like increased social distancing measures in the office. However, in the future, we predict that we’ll see experiential offices, operating as a larger number of smaller offices located throughout the United States.
This enables companies to attract and retain the best talent, removing the physical constraints of a single office location and allowing them to perform more competitively in the global marketplace.
For more information on the future of the workplace, or to stay informed on real estate trends, be sure to explore the RealNex Blog.
