5 Keys to Successful Workplace Re-entry
BetterSpaces creates and facilitates workplace well-being.
Since early March, questions about the future of the workplace have only grown in number. How can we safely return, and sustain, large numbers of people working together? Re-entry might be a long, and challenging process for many buildings and companies. However, it doesn’t have to be. With the BetterSpaces app, the future of the workplace is already here.
Using the five key points below, landlords and buildings have the opportunity to make returning to the workplace a time for renewed community, health, and happiness.
1. Don’t Skimp on Safety
New safety measures are crucial to building re-entry. Image from Density
A successful return to a building means maintaining a rigorous safety plan. Cleaning alone won’t be enough. Buildings must also reconsider how people use mixed use and public spaces, office design, density, and time spent indoors. With the BetterSpaces mobile app, landlords can control access to space, and limit the number of people in public and mixed use spaces, like amenity areas. Now more than ever, use every medium available to communicate health resources and safety measures.
Air quality will continue to be a factor, but not just outside. Particle filtration in a centralized HVAC system has been shown to reduce the transport of infectious particles. All ventilation systems should be up to date, regularly cleaned and maintained. Consider providing masks for indoor use, as well.
2. Virtual Engagements Won’t, and Shouldn’t, Go Away
The BetterSpaces app is a hub for connection.
Water cooler catch ups, collaborative lunches, and breezy 5 minute chats of the office environment have all been missing the past few months, but community and connection shouldn’t be. Working remotely can be isolating and lonely.. A recent CBRE report reflects the need for creative connection and collaboration is deeper than ever during WFH. We help tenants and remote teams become more resilient and connected through virtual engagement and activation. Virtual happy hours, live streaming yoga classes, professional development webinars, and morning check-ins have proven to be fun, effective ways to battle feelings of isolation and loneliness.
CBRE also reported nearly a third of the workers polled stated flexibility in their workplace is important. Building management should anticipate this. Greet the new normal with virtually open arms, and a sustained plan to provide community and amenities from everywhere. Foster connection from anywhere with impactful virtual events, on-demand experiences, and accessible amenities.
3. Encourage Well-Being by Example
Landlords and companies should think holistically about the health and happiness of their tenants and employees. Research shows retention rates increase when employers show a strong interest in, and encourage, the well-being goals of their employees. Not only do they express an interest in investing in the personal future of their employees, they also invest in the future of the company.
As more and more companies coax people away from their home offices and routines and back into buildings, senior staff and leadership should make well-being a priority. Schedule health breaks on the work calendar, and encourage the same of staff. After months at home, space activations like yoga classes, wellness bars, and workplace well-being programs are no longer simply work perks, but nearly required.
Another simple way to cultivate well-being? Think green. Plants play a big role in our design philosophy at BetterSpaces. Create green spaces in the office, and make sure the design and flow reflects tenants’ newly heightened sense of space and comfort.
4. Harness Technology as an HR Tool and a Safety Measure
Use technology to keep people safer. Image from Density
Attitudes about WFH and returning to the office vary greatly depending on experience. A re-entry plan isn’t complete without a tenant survey. Ask people what matters to them. Understanding and responding to anxieties and expectations will be crucial to the success of a building’s re-entry plan.
Tech is also a hugely important way to help people be safe. Density meters, keyless/touch-free entry and elevator use, and even control over the air flow are all possible with technology. With the BetterSpaces app, tenants can see how many people are in each bookable space, and plan accordingly.
It’s also a powerful tool for messaging and HR. Landlords and building management are able to communicate directly with their tenants, who can then make choices about how and when they use the building based on the data in their app. The app puts control into the hands of both tenant and landlord.
5. Provide Options
Provide flexibility and options for tenants.
Ultimately, a safe and sustainable re-entry means providing tenants with options. The BetterSpaces digital platform allows landlords and building managers access to a diverse toolkit that supports and sustains a healthy, thriving workplace. Via the app, tenants will be able to receive and respond to building communications, access shared space, engage with colleagues, ideas, and activities, and feel safe throughout their workday.
Connection to a workplace community will sustain tenants and companies through the awkward transition times and ultimately, into a stronger, healthier, and more resilient workplace.