Almost two-thirds (60%) of UK organisations require employees to be in the office for a minimum number of days a week, according to research by global advisory, broking and solutions firm Willis Towers Watson (WTW).
Its Flexible work models pulse survey, which surveyed 198 medium and large private sector UK organisations, also found most employers are looking for staff to be on-site for two to three days a week, while 23% said they are in the office for the majority of the week. However, two-thirds (61%) have no set rules to determine days on site, so employees can choose the days they work remotely without restrictions.
Almost two-thirds (62%) are not currently promoting bringing employees back into the office, however 25% are improving office facilities, such as improved dining facilities, gyms and physical therapy to encourage in-person interaction.
According to respondents, the drive behind a greater in-office presence is led by the belief that face-to-face interactions boost employee engagement within teams (84%), strengthen corporate culture (72%) and enhance learning opportunities for junior staff members (69%).
The majority (86%) of respondents said engagement is increased by having a better work-life balance, while 69% said they have experienced greater staff retention. Other benefits include promoting specific roles that could not be filled without remote work options (82%).
Paul Richards, Europe rewards data intelligence leader at WTW, said: “While employers navigate balancing both corporate and employee needs by encouraging employees back to the office for better engagement and productivity, without a clear structure around designated days spent in the office, organisations will be no closer to achieving improved team collaboration.
“Leaders need to rethink their flexible work models in a structured way that prioritises the employee experience and, at the same time, achieves corporate goals. Reviewing reward and benefits and seeking employee feedback ensures alignment with needs and expectations, while taking into account realistic changes that will motivate employees back to the office.”
