Posted on 28/11/2023 by Helen Corke
In Hong Kong we are now back into the full swing of things, and the city and offices are buzzing once again in the run up to the end of year. It’s great to feel the energy of our city ramping up!
On the hot topic of flexible working, I have spoken to many clients and candidates recently on the subject. It seems there is a widening spectrum of what employers are, or are not, offering in terms of flexibility and mixed reviews on what we all think about it.
For the more international firms there still seems to be a large proportion that offer generous work from home options, but increasingly this is being reduced, and in the smaller to mid-sized firms it is something that clients are telling us is offered, but that their culture is to come into the office. Delicately described in one verbal brief I was given as "The boss would ideally prefer people to be in the office, although technically we do offer flexible working." There certainly seems to be a move towards getting back into the office full time and, personally, I can understand why.
The Charlotte Frank team recently moved into new, beautiful offices to sit together with our sister company, Elliott Scott HR. We feel very lucky to have the opportunity to all work together more closely, and we have all gained so much from the collaboration and just as importantly the comradery, enriched culture, and friendships forged. This face-to-face interaction and time together at the coffee machine or brainstorming in the boardroom cannot be underestimated. It undoubtedly contributes to making a happier, more inclusive culture, which always leads to a more successful business, regardless of size.
As a business we are also proud to offer flexible working, but from our experience, most employees want to be in the office. It would be interesting to hear everyone's thoughts around this topic and understand what your businesses are offering, and what you all feel about getting the balance right. Do you want to be in the office, or do you feel pressured to come in? Do you feel as productive at home or more productive?
So what are the pros of working in a collaborative workspace?
Having a space where your team can come together, and work collaboratively helps to improve problem solving and increase innovation, efficiency, and success.
1- Problem Solving: it is proven that employees that work somewhere with a strong collaborative culture face less difficulty with problem solving. This is due to having a strong relationship as a team and allows for employees to learn from each other.
2- Increased Productivity: Another benefit is the ability to increase a team or individuals’ productivity. They are able to delegate tasks and operate more efficiently as a group.
3- Improved Relationships: Office environments encourage social interaction, the perfect place for brainstorming and collaborating. Being in the office with colleagues allows for teams to get to know one another better, learning more about each other and building stronger relationships.
4- Working Hours: Working in a physical office makes it easier to accommodate stricter working hours, helping to have a stronger work life balance.
5- Feeling of Purpose: Collaborating as a team helps unite colleagues by attaining a common goal.
As a business, we are also proud to offer flexible working, but from our experience most want to be in. It would be interesting to hear everyone's thoughts around this topic and understand what your businesses are offering, and how you all feel about getting the balance right. Do you want to be in the office, or do you feel pressured to come in? Do you feel as productive at home or more productive? I encourage you to get in touch or comment here and let us know!
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