Week 3: Is it time to go back into the office?

In the ever-changing landscape of office dynamics, we find ourselves in a real-life game of ping-pong. As we step into the post-pandemic world (a phrase I hoped to avoid, yet here we are), the old normal of office life is knocking on the door. Much like the British and Melbourne weather, the expectations of this workforce is hugely varied. We have a generation of new entrants and a spectrum of seasoned professionals. We have the Gen Zeders, stepping into their professional journey amidst a hybrid work culture, the Remote Rulers who’ve had a taste of the home-office freedom and refuse to look back, and the Flexible Fencers who will go with whatever, as long as the role responsibilities meet their expectations.

At Tiger Recruitment, the narrative is unfolding in real-time. We’re seeing a significant chunk of our employers favouring a return to the office, or a hybrid model that’s skewed towards more in-office days. I mean, it does make sense. For some workplaces there’s an irreplaceable buzz in the office, a spontaneous exchange of ideas, and a camaraderie that virtual platforms just can’t mimic.

But this shift certainly isn't without hurdles. Job seekers have had a taste of remote working flexibility and not everyone's keen on reverting to the old ways.

The difference in preferences is the latest challenge on many of our desks. But there is one thing we all know, and that is that eneed employees and vice versa. So, how do we balance the seesaw of expectations?

For Employers: Finding the Middle Ground

If you’re on the journey of reintroducing in-office work, here are a few tips:

• Transparency: Lay out the work arrangement expectations upfront and if there is an opportunity for hybrid working, voice it. It clears the air and aligns expectations right from the start.
• Flexibility: A bit of flexibility can go a long way. Whether it's flexible start and end times or working with a star candidate's expectations, to find a middle ground.
• In-Office Perks: Over at Tiger, the weekly fresh fruit and snack spread is a small yet significant morale booster. Trust me, a cinnamon social from Ole and Steen can be a game-changer on a dreary Monday morning.
• Office Morale Boosters: We're seeing a rise in office support roles. It seems businesses are keen on investing in staff dedicated to elevating the office vibe. Be it through an office revamp, organising company events, or just having a warm, welcoming face to greet staff each morning - these touches make a world of difference in transitioning back to in-office work life.

For The Job Seekers: Communication and Adaptability are Key

• Adaptability: Showcase your readiness to adapt to different work models. It’s a trait that employers value immensely in this transition phase.
• Voice Your Preference: While expressing your work arrangement preference, also show your willingness to find a balanced solution. It’s a two-way street, after all.
• Evaluate the Entire Role: It's disheartening when job seekers pass up great opportunities over a work arrangement that doesn't initially meet their preference. It's crucial to communicate with recruiters and inquire if the work schedule is fixed or flexible. At times, we've seen employers requiring a 5-day office attendance initially, only to shift to a hybrid model in the subsequent months.

The transition back to office life is a live narrative and everyone has their stories. I'd love to hear about your experiences, or, feel free to drop me a message if you need advise on maneuvering through the change.