Page 5 - PA_Enterprise_December_2020-January_2021
P. 5
PA Enterprise
efforts to contain the pandemic, it’s also a They enhanced their cleaning regimes, increased
consequence of our newfound focus on flexibility airflow, added hand sanitizer stations throughout
as a whole. We’re beginning to see the extent to all spaces, displayed safety signage, organised
which different people, roles and tasks require one-way systems and redesigned furniture
different parameters for optimal performance. layouts to enable social distancing.
To boost employee productivity, engagement For all workplaces, this safety-first approach will
and happiness, our world of work will feature a prevail in 2021 and beyond as we continue to
strategic blend of different environments, places, mitigate the dangers of Covid-19.
working hours and even agile working setups –
such as sit-stand desks, active sitting chairs and Active commuting will rise
even exercise balls. In the months we were encouraged to return
to our workplaces, active commuting became a
Office space will continue to be crucial popular way to both avoid public transport and
Undeniably, despite our newfound acceptance break up a sedentary working day.
of remote working, there is a growing need It’s likely this trend will continue, and as a result,
for businesses to provide office space for their employers will look for offices fit for a cycling
employees to develop their skills, collaborate and commute, which neighbour cycleways and
learn from one another. feature showers and secure bike racks.
The ‘death of the office’ narrative that murmured
through 2020 wasn’t silenced by academic Businesses will try to prevent remote working
rhetoric, it was silenced by people sincerely loneliness
missing their office environments – and For some, remote working came with a sense
everything that came with them. of loneliness and isolation – our innate need for
Businesses still want a central hub. In fact, only social interaction was barely being met. But for
8% of employees want to work from home five others, it was a dream come true.
days a week, and 53% of UK businesses surveyed In fact, the dichotomy of the experience was
by Knight Frank said they wanted their offices to highlighted by our LinkedIn poll on World Mental
feature more collaboration space. So, while the Health Day; 49% of 731 respondents said that
demand for flexibility continues, social capital working from home had a positive impact on
remains critical. their mental health, while 40% said that it had a
Employers will look for offices fit for a cycling negative impact.
commute, which neighbour cycleways and Ultimately, 2021 wellbeing strategies will come
feature showers and secure bike racks. down to personal choice, flexibility, and an
additional integrity in remote environments.
Covid-secure workplaces will prevail
What’s important is that the conversation
As the first lockdown was lifted, flexible office continues. Talent will look for businesses
space providers went to great lengths to create that appreciate the importance of wellbeing
Covid-secure workplaces in order to comply with
government guidelines and lower health risks. Continued u
PA Enterprise is published by
December 2020/January 2021 5
