The Future of Work: Workplace Trends Emerging from Covid-19
The commercial property and co-working sectors effectively came to a standstill as organizations scrambled to transfer operations from office to home setups, as the switch to remote working ushered in a new era for the future of work. Here I discuss what workplace trends are most likely to emerge post-pandemic for businesses.
With most of the workforce having settled into a new kind of normal, CFOs already see the cost benefits of flexibility around remote teams, with 74% planning to move at least 5% into permanent remote positions post-Covid-19. One recent study estimates that up to 30% of the global workforce will be working from home multiple days a week by the end of 2021, a trend that reinforces how important flexibility is to the future of work.
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We predict that an inevitable post-pandemic strategy will be the move to a more agile solution around office space. Companies will want to use cash more constructively as they rebuild, with a focus on re-establishing supply chains and re-hiring employees rather than on large capital expenditures and signing leases on buildings for the long term with no flexibility.
Flexible offices are already supporting businesses during the pandemic. While some have temporarily closed, many have made a move to remote working and linked members to community platforms to keep in touch and share information. Other spaces have started providing additional services to help their members navigate uncertain times through financial guidance, HR assistance and private office space. Key trends right now include the following:
1) Virtual office tours. Virtual office space tours have become mainstream with Covid-19 restrictions pausing on-site visits or travel. Whether through Zoom or Skype, businesses are still planning for the future by hunting for office space during lockdown. We have seen a 75% increase in clients doing virtual office tours, providing a 360-degree view of the space that enables prospective tenants to have a fully immersive experience.
2) Virtual office address. Although teams are working from home, businesses are benefiting from the services provided by virtual offices to help with day-to-day operations, such as reception services, a business mailbox, and mail management. As well as being budget-friendly and flexible, there are several additional benefits to choosing a virtual office space.
3) Rent-free periods. Businesses can plan office moves without paying for space that won’t be used during quarantine. Some operators are offering new members up to two months of rent-free occupation and flexible leasing arrangements to support businesses as they return to the office. Other providers are offering discounts, like 15% off for the first three months.
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