Businesses who have invested in greater care and service are seeing greater numbers return

There are a growing number of reports that those offices which have invested in the welcome and care of employees are seeing greater numbers return to offices. It is unsurprising. If an employee feels extra valued once they enter the workplace then they will return to the workplace rather than stay at home, which does have its natural issues as well as pleasures.

Interestingly the reports are noting that it is not food service which is making an impact but reception services and those services where there is real bespoke personal contact and care. It does support research emerging that suggests that:

· There has been a momentum shift with the employee today holding the power over the employer. During the financial crash, the power moved to the employer as many felt so financially vulnerable. The pendulum has swung.

· People do want to feel real interaction and care. Nothing beats a smile and a welcome.

· Employees believe that if their clients receive a great welcome, it increases the odds of a deal being agreed by over 25%.

· A great welcome and genuine care in the workplace makes an employee feel valued and respected. This, in turn, increases levels of retention.

· More and more companies are looking for new ways to connect with their people and a growing number are recognising that they had lost “connection” for a number of years and this is now a problem in recovering.

Research is also suggesting that work patterns are returning to a new model of an old world. Back in the 1950s, 60s and 70s, it was all about a 9am-5pm work pattern. This changed during the 1980s and 90s and grew during the last two decades. Now the forecasts are that most will come to offices to attend meetings and meet colleagues. Offices will see 3 day weeks and there will be a greater work-life balance emerge. In fact, many will mix their business and personal life into each day. Patterns will change. Many now expect to spend their evenings away from work and with family and friends.

For those companies who want to see greater return levels then the answer seems simple – create greater experiences, more bespoke service offers and make people feel valued. Yes, there is a cost but the cost of lost people, productivity and clients is far worse.