Real experiences of going back to the office (or not)

I put out a one question survey recently. "Tell us about your experience of returning to the office (all responses anonymous)"

Here are some of the responses:

Started a new job during the pandemic, so not really ‘returning’ rather being introduced to an office. Hardly anyone is in and it’s newly refurbished so is yet to gain the character of a ‘lived in’ space. I’m going in occasional days but not minded to spend a lot of time in the office - what’s in it for me?

Forced back to a less productive office, to be even less productive because we’ve spent the last two years recruiting people from all over the country so I have to hold meetings remotely anyway. A hell scape of noisy open plan offices with everyone on calls has turned the entire office into a call centre.

Mine’s potentially a different experience - I’ve been mostly WFH for over 10 years and in general I prefer it. I’m lucky enough to have the space to make it work, have a better chair than my employer would buy and find it easier to concentrate without the distraction of people on calls, TV chat etc

I haven't been in yet. I feel ok if i can do this at my own pace but don't want to be forced. I don't see why i should jeopardise my health for pret's profits

I have not been made to return to the office - I do recognise a huge gap from a lack of human interaction in my work which having the option of meeting at an office (or co-work space / coffee shop) would help with. You can actually only do so much with zoom etc.

In the before times I was working 3 days in person / 2 days remote and even then my commute (allow 2 hours each way) was exhausting. Zoom kinda sucks but I don’t think I could go back to how it was.

The move to remote work was sudden. We all did our best to make it work. It is now the time to improve how we work either remotely or over multiple sites.

I can quickly help you to understand what is working well and what is not working well. I have a remote workshop which will quickly lead to greater clarity of the current state, what needs to change and how to begin that change. By involving the teams we get greater buy in and commitment to make those changes. People always learn something along the way too.

If you need company or the feeling of being with other people please consider joining us for virtual co-working currently booking 11/2/22 - 25/3/22 12:00 - 18:00 GMT

If you would like to have a conversation about how I might be able to help you and your team please contact me via email or directly book a 30 minute call. I look forward to hearing from you. Or you could take a look at some testimonials.