How To Build A Return-To-Office Community?

October 17, 2023
|
7mins to read
How To Build A Return-To-Office Community?

Learn how establishing a return to office community encourages gatherings and learning opportunities, without boundaries for communication and understanding.

Return to Office has been a hype to learn from and having to expand from all the insights that will support upgrading the system and how the company develops in the learning hubs. Updating with information with the relevant facts and did you know so employees have a quick read to also express what they are feeling or their opinion. 

Team Building Efforts For RTO Community

When it comes to team building we also need to take time to let employees and employers have open communication rather than always focusing on work boundaries. Building a fun and exciting community that lets everyone have a conversation. But mainly communicating the cause and creating a space that buildings feedback in no time. 

So the company is able to reflect the feedback and what changes they would need to make. Also, these feedback sessions can be held in person and onsite to have a better understanding of what changes can be implemented. 

To build a community that builds the foundation to communicate openly and softens the boundaries to be more understanding in any situation. The team is very strong in expressing their opinions on what is being asked. 

As every company is pushing return-to-office mandates strictly we also need to know the reasons given by the executives: 

  • Improve skills and knowledge to advance their employees 
  • For employees to keep building innovative ideas to create new ways for their product approach 
  • A stronger culture usually results in more engaged employees, and more involved employees are more productive.

Creating a small RTO community will have a high turnover to change and shift how senior executives can be more involved. 

Why is the Return To Office Community Needed? 

Returning to the office presents a unique set of challenges and the benefits of joining a supportive group during this time cannot be overstated:

Support and Camaraderie

Returning to the office might raise anxieties and uncertainty about things like the commute, safety and health procedures, and getting used to a new schedule. By taking part in a return-to-work community, you can connect with others who are facing comparable difficulties and build a network of support. This comradery fosters a sense of community that makes it possible for you to share your experiences, ask questions, and obtain insightful guidance. A huge confidence boost might come from realizing you're not alone in confronting similar difficulties.

Networking Opportunities

These groups provide a special setting for growing your professional network. You'll get the chance to network with coworkers from diverse businesses, organizations, or sectors. These relationships may lead to fresh opportunities on a personal and professional level. The connections made in these networks might lead to opportunities for project collaborations, mentorship, and career advice.

Resource Sharing

Communities for returning to work frequently act as information hubs where members exchange useful resources. This includes guides, articles, and professional recommendations on how to handle the shift successfully. You have access to a wealth of information, including guidance on adjusting to hybrid work arrangements, perceptions of safety procedures, and recommendations for preserving productivity and work-life balance.

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

For many people, returning to work can be an emotionally challenging process. While some people might be excited, others might be anxious. These groups provide a secure setting where you may voice your worries, exchange tips for keeping your mental health, and get support from others who might be going through similar things. During this change, your emotional health is just as important as your physical security.

Impacting Your Community 

There are a few things that need to be done before connecting and creating an impact on your community. Team building always connects with a community to act together, which then builds their social skills for your employees. 

According to HBR, their review looks at the social aspects of the workplace and employee motivation. When asked what would motivate them to come into the office, employees had a resounding answer: social time with coworkers:

  • 85% of employees would be motivated to go into the office to rebuild team bonds.
  • 84% of employees would be motivated to go into the office if they could socialize with coworkers.
  • 74% of employees would go to the office more frequently if they knew their “work friends” were there.
  • 73% of employees would go to the office more frequently if they knew their direct team members would be there.

Building a return-to-office community is critical for fostering a happy and productive workplace environment after a time of remote work or any severe disruption. The following actions can be taken to forge a solid return to the office community:

Clear Communication

Start by outlining the return to work plan and schedule in detail, including the time, what to expect, and any safety precautions. Answer any worries and queries that the staff may have. Make certain they feel educated and heard.

Engagement and Involvement

Participate in the workforce in the formulation of return-to-work timelines and policies. In order to foster a sense of ownership and participation, encourage input and feedback.

Preparation and Training

If there are changes in technology or safety, give employees whatever training or tools they may need to adjust to the new work environment. Address any concerns you may have about the change.

Flexible Work Options

To meet the various needs of your employees, take into account providing flexible work arrangements, such as hybrid work models.

Wellness Programs

Implement wellness initiatives and programs to support emotional and physical health, which are crucial throughout changes.

Social Events and Activities

Plan social and team-building activities to encourage communication and relationship-building among staff members. If some employees continue to work remotely, they can include lunches, outings, or even virtual activities.

Workspace Design

Think about how to lay out the workplace to promote cooperation, communication, and well-being. Make spaces where people can work intently and socialize with others.

Recognition and Rewards

Employee contributions and efforts during the remote work time and after they return to the office should be acknowledged and rewarded.

Regular Check-Ins

Plan frequent check-ins with staff members to determine their well-being and gather feedback.

Community Building Activities

Plan events that foster community involvement outside of the workplace. This could entail charitable endeavors, clubs based on shared interests, or volunteer work.

Mentorship and Onboarding

Assign mentors who can assist new or returning employees in adjusting to the workplace. Offer new hires resources for onboarding.

Technology and Tools

Make sure that all staff have access to the most recent technology and tools. Platforms for communications, software, and hardware are included.

Leadership and Role Modeling

Encourage management and leadership to lead by example by showing up and participating in the workplace. Insist on the value of community and cooperation.

Feedback Loops

Establish channels for staff to voice opinions and suggestions on the process of returning to work. Make changes and improvements based on this criticism.

Diversity and Inclusion

Encourage an inclusive, varied workplace where everyone is treated with respect and worth.

Think about programs promoting diversity and inclusion.

Aqsa Aamir
Aqsa Aamir

Aqsa Aamir is a Digital Strategist at Litespace and has a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management. Aqsa has experience in several areas of business and digital strategy. Aqsa's proficiency in creating hybrid work tactics to offer guidance in content planning. Her current focus is on hybrid work models and culture building in marketing. 

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