As return-to-office mandates become more prevalent, businesses are exploring how to make office environments more appealing to staff.
- A survey by Peldon Rose highlights that refreshments like free snacks and coffee are top perks for 37% of UK employees.
- The availability of car parking is crucial outside London, with 37% citing it as a key incentive to return.
- Lack of meeting rooms hinders collaboration; 31% of workers want more of these essential spaces.
- Greenery and personal storage amenities significantly enhance workplace satisfaction.
As more companies, including major players like Amazon, implement return-to-office schedules, the challenge of enticing employees back to the office has become increasingly significant. Instead of merely mandating returns, companies can focus on enhancing the workplace to attract their workforce voluntarily. An illuminating survey conducted by Peldon Rose has shed light on key factors influencing employee preferences for office settings.
According to the survey, one of the primary attractions for 37% of UK office workers is the availability of refreshments, such as free snacks, coffee machines, and soft drinks. This is particularly valued in sectors such as marketing, advertising, and PR, where such amenities are seen as productivity boosters. Moreover, for employees located in regions outside of London, the provision of ample parking space is equally crucial, also attracting 37% of respondents.
Physical aspects of the workplace also play an essential role in appealing to employees. Meeting rooms are highly sought after, with 31% of survey participants calling for more of these spaces to facilitate essential face-to-face collaboration. Alarmingly, 38% report lacking access to sufficient meeting rooms altogether, suggesting a significant area for improvement.
The inclusion of plants and adequate personal storage can transform office dynamics positively. Around 29% of workers express a desire for more greenery, which is known for its mood-enhancing properties and potential to make office environments more inviting. Personal storage options, sought by 28% of employees, also contribute to a sense of value and personalization in the workplace. Unfortunately, 65% of surveyed employees reported lacking access to such amenities.
Additional features such as specifically allocated desks, breakout spaces, ergonomic setups, and private kitchens are also desirable. A notable percentage of employees indicates that access to a gym and outdoor workspaces could further increase their comfort and willingness to work on-site.
Leeson Medhurst, Head of Strategy at Peldon Rose, emphasizes that effectively utilizing office space, enhancing convenience through personalized workstations, and directly engaging with employees to gather their input can collectively foster a workspace that employees are eager to attend.
Adapting workplace environments to include valued amenities and gather employee input is crucial for attracting staff back to the office.
