Oh no, I hear you cry, someone else professing the future of the workplace. Since COVID-19, some people have described a future of remote working and the death of the office. Whilst others have said the offices are here to stay, an embodiment of organisational culture – essential for innovation and collaboration.
At Inclusive Cultures, we believe the answer is a mixture of these two extremes. What works for one organisation, won’t be right for another. The solution will vary depending on a number of factors including (but not limited to):
- the type of work performed
- organisational culture
- attitude to talent acquisition and retention
- nature of the property portfolio
- technology
- people management capability
Some people have thrived working from home. Benefiting from a manager who trusts them, great technology, fast internet connection and a dedicated place to work. Others have really struggled, through a lack of some of the above, work activities that don’t suit remote working.
Before making any changes to your workplace we would recommend taking an outcome-based approach.
- What organisation do you want?
- What is your purpose?
- What talent do you want to attract and retain?
When you understand this, you can shape your workplaces (which could include offices, regional hubs, co-working space, public spaces coffee shops, hotels, etc.) and your peoples’ homes.
This, in turn, enables you to understand what technology they will need, how you support people working remotely and how you support managers to manage virtually.
This is not something that HR, technology or property teams can do in isolation. It requires a coalition, with executive sponsorship and the input of colleagues across the business.
