Breaking the sound barrier: The impact of office noise on the working day

JLL found 51% of employers rank productivity gains as a key reason for encouraging staff back. But understanding productivity in a hybrid context, what that looks like and how to measure it, remains a challenge, says Hendry.

Workforce analytics firm Visier found that compared to remote workers, in-person and hybrid employees were more likely to say workplace culture pressured them to prioritize performative tasks that visibly make them ‘look busy,’ above more valuable ‘meaningful’ work.

Pradere says employees must learn how to use the new workplace possibilities on offer, so it’s not just about being back in the office, but back for a purpose.

“It’s about purposefully managing tasks to suit your diary, so when I go on site, I don't work the same as when I work remotely,” she says. “But employers need to trust their workforce, allowing them scope to organize their schedules productively.”

Being clear about expectations of office etiquette can also help ensure workspace is used appropriately. “It comes back to the availability of diverse spaces, as well as designating certain zones for quiet work or confidential calls, to avoid disturbing colleagues,” Pradere says.

Hendry suggests HR, IT and facilities and workplace management teams must work together, to create fit-for-purpose strategies that support better performance.

“Instead of viewing elements in isolation, it’s about gathering data, listening to employees and understanding the big picture,” she concludes. “Reviewing and then acting on feedback will help create dynamic workplace experiences that enable employees to do their best work.”