Getting your team back into the office
The empty car park, the dusty table tennis table and the lonely cow have been a sorry sight over the past few months, but not for long. With the government’s working from home guidelines relaxing this month and schools returning next month, September is pitched as the time that employees move back into the office en masse. But, while Witan Studios is ready for you, are you ready for us?
Pop by and see what change we've made. We'll always provide a safe workspace for you and your team.We want to ensure everyone has a safe and successful return to the studios, so here are our top tips for getting your team back together.
Create a plan
There’s a lot to consider with bringing your teams back into the office, so it’s a good idea to create a ‘return to the office’ plan.
A return to office plan covers everything, including the basics, such as daily cleaning requirements, meeting room capacity and hot-desking; and the not-so-basics, such as staggered shifts, interdepartmental projects and tea making schedules. The key to success here is slowly but surely – gradually re-introducing employees to the workplace and adjusting your office space accordingly.
Prepare the office
While we’re busy preparing and cleaning the communal areas, you should be busy preparing your office space. This includes conducting a deep clean, stocking up on hand sanitiser,
hand wash and PPE, and re-arranging the office layout if necessary. Don’t forget to put someone in charge of ensuring that the office is regularly cleaned and supplies stay replenished.
Prepare your employees
Some employees can’t wait to get back to the office, and others are a little more hesitant – both need time to readjust.
Early and open communication is crucial for preparing all employees for their return to Witan Studios and identifying those who need a little more time working from home or some adjustments. Conduct regular one-to-one meetings to brief employees on your return to office plan, find out how they feel and provide any support needed.
Support everyone
Speaking of support, offer it to everyone.
Mental health has become and significant and growing concern this year, with heightened anxiety about the crisis, returning to work, childcare, finances, travelling, and more. Just because someone says they’re ok, doesn’t mean they are ok. If you have an Employee Assistance Programme or occupational health support,
remind your employees how to access it. If you don’t have an EAP, local business Arthur Ellis Mental Health Support provides mental health training to businesses to help you recognise and support the mental wellbeing of staff yourself.
Get the gang together
Video conferencing might have been great for team quizzes and catch-ups, but it’s not the same as getting the team together in person.
Take advantage of the new wave of socially distanced events to reignite your office culture and team mentality. There’s plenty going on, including outdoor theatre from Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy, outdoor cinema from The Parks Trust, and a huge variety of food and drink festivals. Ensure your events are open to all (socially distance requirements permitting) but respect those who aren’t ready to party just yet.
If you require any help in bringing your team back to Witan Studios, get in touch – we’re happy to help.