Social interaction was missed by 67% of people working from home during COVID restrictions

The impact on workspace management will be a focus on flexible space geared toward collaborative workspaces, rather than hot desks for focused work time. 

The poll was conducted December 2020 – March 2021 when the third lockdown came into effect in the UK. 

Will Richards, Head of Workplace Experience commented: “OurResearch – and that of others – indicates a new approach for the post-covid workplace experience – especially for those who’ve been working from home the last 12 months.”  

Every aspect from talent attraction and retention will benefit from a more flexible user experience...”

Over 1,000 people responded to the series of questions:

• More than half (59%) of participants were in favour of continuing to work from home for 60% of their time,
• Over two-thirds (67%) of poll respondents citing time with colleagues as the factor they missed most about their Workplace
• Whilst 40% stated they’re keen to return to the workplace, almost the same percentage (38%) said they’re in no rush to return to the Workplace as they’re as productive at home
• Flexible work arrangements would persuade half (56% ) of respondents back to the Workplace
• 47% found they had an improved work/life balance
• More than half (54%) felt their organisation responded well to the challenges of the pandemic
• 41% cited well-being as the primary factor to make them happier/more productive in the workplace

Richards concluded: “Every touchpoint in the workspace is an opportunity to deliver innovation in flexibility, support and engagement for employees. The next 12-18 months is going to be a transition phase to implement Best Practice in workplace experience and allow organisations to keep their people connected with their workplace, organisational culture and brand.”

For insights on the importance of the workplace experience in talent management, read the blog here.

NOTES:

¹ The poll by ISS UK was carried out during ‘Lockdown 3’ from December 2020-March 2021. Respondents were asked seven questions via a poll on the ISS UK Facilities Services LinkedIn account, which was open to the general public. A total of 1,118 people responded to the questions which offered fixed and open answers:

1. If you have been mostly working remotely during the pandemic, how do you feel about returning to the workplace?
2. What would persuade you back to the workplace?
3. How do you feel the org you work for responded to pandemic challenges?
4. If you could choose, what would be your ideal work circumstance?
5. What’s been the main benefit to you from WFH?
6. If you have worked more remotely/from home, what have you missed about the workplace
7. What support would make you more productive/happy in the workplace?

Download the results of the poll here.