Research reveals human connection is missing link to building a future-proof workplace
New research from Sodexo reveals UK employees still prefer remote working and are more cost-conscious than ever.
Sodexo’s new Work Experience Tracker research, conducted in collaboration with YouGov, revealed that out of the 3,000 respondents in the UK 1 in 5 were dealing with poor mental and physical health, 20% are quiet quitters and 23% stated they wanted to quit.
These issues are likely to impact business performance and business leaders need to reflect on the causes and take action to improve employee experience.
A big question for many employers in 2023 still remains ‘how do we bring people back to the office?’ Sodexo’s research reveals the top reasons which would help draw workers back in, with synergy between people, space and sustainability core to building a future-proof workplace, driving business performance and employee experience.
Two thirds of those surveyed said they were satisfied with their current working pattern. 58% continue to work a hybrid pattern, however 36% stated they would come into the office more to connect with other people.
This is corroborated in the 71% of those questioned stating the greatest satisfaction in their workplace experience was from team spirit and collaboration. 36% said they would like the opportunity to socialise, a similar number (35%) noted that they would like to be offered free or subsidised commuting, and 23% said the same about food.
"Interestingly the tracker research shows us that 43% of workers are only somewhat satisfied with their workplace experience.
This is a risk for employers as these workers could move to become quiet quitters, but why is this group being overlooked?
The question we need to ask ourselves is what piece of the puzzle are we missing?"
58% of those surveyed are working a hybrid pattern. 20% of respondents appear to be quiet quitters, those who say they will stay in their job and do the bare minimum. Interestingly 43% of quiet quitters work a hybrid pattern and the greatest proportion (38%) are boomers.
With the research revealing differing preferences for quiet spaces or lively, creative and collaborative environments it is essential that business leaders adopt a balanced approach factoring in wellbeing when looking at remote and in-person work and avoid adopting a one-size-fits-all approach when developing their workplace strategies.
The YouGov findings were also validated by Sodexo’s own observations through sensor data at its London head office which shows the consistent motivation for workers going into the office is about seeing their work colleagues.
Before the pandemic, we were already witnessing a shift in the nature of workplaces and the need to be future ready.
To help businesses adapt, we developed Vital Spaces - a strategic approach to transforming workplaces and preparing for changing futures.
Using Vital Spaces we redefined our London head office during the pandemic.
Early surveys hinted at a new trend for the office to become a social hub, a place for health and wellbeing and a crucible for culture.
Using data sensors from the office we are seeing this trend come to life with people gravitating towards the collaborative areas rather than the traditional workspaces.