From Remote to Reality: Return-to-Work Solutions for Employers

Return to Work Solutions

Return-to-work solutions are strategies and actions that employers can take to support a return to the workplace after a period of remote work. These solutions can range from implementing flexible schedules to listening to employee feedback. This blog will talk about the different solutions employers can take to create a workplace that aims to be productive, supportive, and responsive to their employees' needs.

Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitation of Workspace

Implementing cleaning and sanitation protocols as part of a return-to-work solution is one part of respiratory illness risk reduction. This can include regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and keyboards, as well as providing hand sanitizer and other cleaning supplies throughout the workplace. The CDC's US general-community guidance, not a healthcare protocol, also recommends handwashing, cleaner air, and staying home and using precautions when ill. Discuss recommended immunizations with a healthcare provider; check applicable local requirements.

Offer Flexible Schedules

Introducing a flexible schedule that permits hybrid work is an option when role duties, coverage, and access allow. Remote work is often feasible, depending on the task. With a hybrid work schedule, employers can provide their staff flexibility to balance their work and personal commitments. This approach allows them to offer a suitable work arrangement. Hybrid work allows employees to work from home part of the time, reducing commuting time and costs and potentially supporting a greater work-life balance. It can also widen participation for employees who may have previously been excluded from the workplace due to distance or other factors, where duties and access permit. In its Australian hybrid-work discussion, BIT recommends monitoring for inequities. Check workload, participation, and progression rather than assuming productivity or retention gains.

Use Technology That Supports Hybrid Workspace

With many employees working remotely, it's essential to have the tools and technology in place to support effective communication, collaboration, and productivity. This is done using technology that enables hybrid workspaces. For example, look for communication, shared-document, and room-coordination tools. Litespace describes AI resume screening, pre-screen interviews, and interview notes. Evaluate office scheduling, event planning and workspace analytics separately against your workplace requirements. With Litespace, employers can assess recruiting needs separately from hybrid-workplace needs.

Provide Collaborative Spaces

As remote work gains popularity, employees may find it challenging to connect with their colleagues and work together efficiently. This can lead to communication gaps, misunderstandings, and reduced productivity. Employers can create specific collaboration areas, such as conference rooms or open workspaces, to address this. These spaces can provide employees a dedicated place to brainstorm, collaborate, and communicate effectively. This can enhance teamwork, foster creativity, and promote innovation when suited to team needs and use. In addition, dedicated collaborative spaces may suit employees who appreciate having a place to work closely with their peers. For example, test the meeting audio and video for remote attendees, share an editable agenda beforehand, and invite their input during the discussion. Offer step-free access to the meeting space and a reservable quiet room or suitable remote option; ask privately about other access needs.

Celebrate Successes

It is important to recognize employees' efforts and accomplishments when they return to the workplace after remote work. Celebrating successes can support a positive work environment and employee morale. Recognizing small accomplishments can also help build community and foster a positive team culture. This can be achieved through various means, including regular shoutouts during team meetings or a designated bulletin board to highlight individual or team successes. Ask before public recognition and offer a private thank-you. CIPD's public design principles call for rewards suited to jobs and teams and schemes seen as fair. Celebrating your team's successes is a way to show your appreciation for them.

Hear Out Your Employees’ Feedback

Employees are the heart of any organization, and their opinions and perspectives matter. By soliciting and valuing employee feedback, you can gain valuable insights into what works and what doesn't in the workplace, though responses may not represent everyone. This can include adjusting work schedules, providing additional training, or changing the physical workspace. NIOSH supports voluntary, participatory workplace design; invite feedback through private, accessible channels. For example, for a room-access concern, assign the facilities lead to try a booking adjustment, set a review date four weeks later, and check access and coordination—not attendance alone. If you listen to and act on your employees' feedback, you can foster a culture of open communication and collaboration and may increase employee satisfaction and engagement. In the end, employee input is vital in developing a return-to-work plan that caters to the needs of the company and its staff.

Key Takeaways

Return-to-work solutions can support a transition back to the workplace. Technology that supports hybrid communication should be assessed separately from the recruiting tools described by Litespace; choose tools responsive to employees' needs. Additionally, considering employee feedback can help shape a workplace for you and your workers.