Can work benefits drive a return to the office?

As the global situation stabilizes again after the pandemic, companies and employees are looking for mutually satisfactory work solutions. Remote working is a great option, no doubt, but certain periods of face-to-face work are still essential.

This is not to say that companies are trying to eliminate the employment benefits achieved with remote work. The present and the future are more about hybrid work, with one part to be carried out at home and the other in person at the company.

So how can we make the return to the office more attractive? At Cloudworks we know a lot about that. In our spaces, freelancers, digital nomads and entrepreneurs develop their work in efficient and versatile environments.

Learning from coworking spaces

For more than a decade, companies like Cloudworks have offered flexible spaces equipped with the latest technology so that coworkers can work in the best possible conditions.

• High-speed Internet
• Flexible contracts
• 24/7 access
• All supplies included
• Meeting rooms
• Phone Booths
• Freshly ground coffee

All this in a dynamic and productive work environment that gives rise to a community accustomed to fostering collaboration among its members. This makes them feel at home. 

Human Resources managers can draw good ideas from this to stimulate professionals on their return to the office. Let’s get to know more interesting proposals.

Employee benefits

Corporate wellness program

Companies such as Qualcomm or Zoom have healthy programs for their employees. Meditation, nutrition or physical exercise classes strengthen body and spirit and promote the productivity of those who receive them.

These corporate wellness classes act as a great incentive for employees to come to the office. They usually start at 8:00 a.m. and, being collective, promote camaraderie and improve the health of the employees.   

Reimbursement of commuting expenses

It is one of the most popular employee benefits. Remote work imposed by the pandemic has made many professionals comfortable at home. Why take the car, train or bus and spend money if they can do their work from home? 

Companies are addressing this situation by reimbursing their employees for certain amounts for the commute. The measure reduces the cost of gasoline, transportation, parking, etc. It is an effective incentive for professionals to return to the office at least a couple of days a week.

Companies that do not have sufficient resources to pay these reimbursements may choose to give their employees flexibility in commuting. Avoiding rush hours or being able to park more easily boosts morale and helps employees strengthen their commitment to the company.

Casual day

Professional practice originating in the United States. Companies that have adopted it generally allow employees to dress more casually on Fridays. Something that is appreciated in customer service-oriented jobs where you generally have to be more dressed up.

Establishing this casual day not only on Fridays but at least a couple of days a week can be attractive to employees in certain sectors. Above all, for being halfway between the pyjamas of remote work and the suit or heels of regular work. 

The more advantages are given for returning to the office, the greater the willingness on the part of the professionals. 

Virtual canteen

Another of the most successful employee benefits. Thanks to this system, it is possible to achieve balanced food, without worrying about logistics. Employees thus obtain an innovative and agile benefit.

It is also a great option for the company. It eliminates the costs of a traditional canteen, offering a much more economical personalized service. Through the company account you can cover the per diems or you can set up a hybrid system based on the benefits package you provide to your staff. 

The other benefits of the virtual canteen are:

• Reduction of waste generated 
• Elimination of space problems generated by a traditional canteen. Small companies that did not have one, thanks to this system, can offer this corporate benefit.
• Centralized management on virtual platforms. This allows the company to easily manage meal orders and schedules.  

Days without meetings

Undoubtedly a curious but very interesting proposal. The return to the office often entails a welcome back period, with professionals stringing together one meeting after another. What until recently took place via Zoom, with a shirt and pajama pants off-camera, now takes place in person.

To encourage professionals to return to the office, many companies are establishing no-meeting days. An initiative that seeks to prevent employees from slowing down their daily work or becoming demotivated due to constant meetings. It has been very well received.

At Cloudworks, we believe that these types of employee benefits are a compelling incentive to return to the office in person. Although perhaps the future will be more focused on the hybrid model, with some days working at home or in coworking spaces and others coming to the company in person. If you are looking for a multipurpose space where you can work daily or just a few days a week or month, do not hesitate to contact us. You will find the right plan for your needs!