HR's Battle to Bring Employees Back Onsite

As the world gradually emerges from the grips of the pandemic, the dynamics of the workplace are undergoing significant changes. HR leaders are grappling with the complexities of bringing staff back to the office while also addressing the growing demand for flexibility.

A recent report from The Conference Board sheds light on the struggles HR executives face and highlights the importance of adopting hybrid work models to strike a balance between organizational needs and employee preferences.

The Struggle to Bring Staff Onsite:

According to the report, 73% of HR executives find it challenging to encourage employees to return to the workplace. Despite the push from CEOs for an on-site return, 56% of workers are still operating remotely at least part of the time. Furthermore, 76% of respondents indicated that professional and office workers continue to follow hybrid or remote schedules, indicating strong pushback against a full return to the office.

Retention and On-Site Mandates:

Mandating on-site work may risk talent retention, as 71% of organisations enforcing on-site return reported difficulties in retaining talent. Voluntary turnover among fully on-site workers surged by 26% in the last six months, twice the rate observed among fully remote employees at 13%. This data underscores the growing preference for flexible work arrangements post-pandemic, making it imperative for employers to strike the right balance.

The Necessity of Flexibility:

The inclination towards flexible work arrangements emerged as a necessity for employees following the pandemic. Research from 2021 indicated that 51.5% of employees left their employers due to the refusal to offer remote or hybrid work options. This suggests that organisations need to adapt to the changing expectations of their workforce to remain competitive in the labor market.

HR Strategies for a Hybrid Future:

To address the evolving demands of both organisations and employees, 68% of HR leaders are exploring or implementing talent strategies to increase on-site work. These strategies encompass team building and celebratory events (62%), flexible days or hours (59%), and a relaxed casual dress code (56%). However, the report suggests that the real solution lies in adopting a hybrid work model.

Embracing Hybrid Work:

Robin Erickson, Vice President of Human Capital at The Conference Board, believes that hybrid work is the key to resolving the ongoing dilemma. The survey results emphasize that offering hybrid work options is essential for attracting and retaining talent, especially in a competitive labor market. By combining the benefits of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, hybrid work can foster a balanced and productive work environment.

Creating a "Commute-Worthy" Office:

Previous research has highlighted the need for employers to reimagine their office spaces to make them "commute-worthy." Beyond offering perks and increased compensation, companies must make the office environment purposeful and conducive to productivity and employee satisfaction. Striking a balance between in-person collaboration and flexible work arrangements will be essential in this endeavor.

As the debate over remote versus on-site work continues, HR leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the future of work. By embracing the hybrid work model and catering to the changing expectations of their workforce, organisations can create a thriving work environment that fosters talent retention, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

The journey towards a new work landscape requires thoughtful consideration, open communication, and a commitment to adapt to the evolving needs of both businesses and employees.