The Workplace Revamp Employees Want, Need and Expect in 2022
In the words of Richard Branson, “Learn to look after your staff first, and the rest will follow.” Well, that motto has certainly worked out for him and to be honest, he’s not wrong!
There’s no time like the present to assess whether your employees are happy. Why? Well, haven’t you heard? Almost one in four UK workers are considering a job change and it’s being dubbed as ‘The Great Resignation’.
Yep, resignations are on the rise and are currently 20% higher in 2021 than 2020 - the aftermath to the pandemic has seen many employees take stock of what they really want from their employers, their careers and their lives in general.
It has become more apparent than ever that ensuring your employees are at their best is good for them, good for you and good for business. But it’s much more than simply offering a weekly fruit bowl and an early Friday finish every now and then.
The happier and healthier your employees are, the higher the staff retention level of your business will be. It’s up to you to create an environment and assemble a team that is so strong (and happy!) they won’t want to go anywhere else.
But what does the future of a successful workplace look like when it comes to attracting and keeping staff?
It’s now time that business owners fix up and look sharp when it comes to planning a mental health route for their employees, as studies show that 39% of employees saw a decline in their mental health during the pandemic as a result of their employer not supporting their wellbeing.
The happier and healthier your employees are, the higher the staff retention level of your business will be. It’s up to you to create an environment and assemble a team that is so strong (and happy!) they won’t want to go anywhere else.
Offering remote working should also be part of the plan; the likes of Apple, Microsoft and Shopify now operate fully remote or hybrid work setups, and well, they’re pretty successful.
Here are a few points to consider in order to create a sense of purpose, a hybrid way of working, careers that give room for learning, and an atmosphere of community and respect within your business…
Focus on mental health
Mental and physical health are equally important. You need to make sure employees are safe, happy and healthy, have regular one-to-ones with managers and are able to talk about any problems they may be experiencing. Retaining your employees and acknowledging their mental and physical health should be built into your HR plan - no matter how small or big your company
Many companies are looking to buy into corporate licenses for apps like Calm and Headspace for their employees or offer wellness sessions with external coaches. Helping them to stay fit and healthy as well as allowing them access to therapy will enhance both their wellbeing as well as your company’s.
A hybrid work approach
With the likes of Apple, Microsoft and Shopify successfully operating fully remote or hybrid work setups, the pandemic saw many offices switching to a hybrid way of working. Allowing your employees the flexibility to work from home even two days a week shows trust and independence, whereas being in the office gives them a chance to socialise and provides structure. It’s the best of both worlds and many companies have benefited from it.
Psst, you might like to check out our mental health initiative - here we have created a bundle of fun resources on how to support your team. Oh, of course we highly recommend topping it all off with one a celebratory scavenger hunt!
Bringing people back together
Whilst the offering of remote working is important and allows flexibility, integrating your team back together is just as vital, especially after we all spent so much time alone and only seeing colleagues via a screen. Oh, and we might just know an events company that can help you on the social front, whether it’s on screen or IRL...
Create a diverse environment
Diversity brings strength: A diverse company is so important, from the people you employ to the people you do business with. In fact, 86% of employees and 66% of HR directors confirm that a diverse workforce will become more important as roles, skills, and company requirements progress and change. Set a clear, inclusive vision for your company and make sure you walk the talk.
Overall, it’s important to listen to your employees, show you value them, allow them to grow and provide the tools to do so. If you don’t, they will find another company that does. Where employees thrive individually, companies thrive collectively. It’s that simple.
And look, don’t forget that our ethos firmly focuses on getting people social, active, and most importantly making sure they have fun, so if your company needs a little helping hand to get your employees going, then we’ve got your back!