Bringing people back into the office

Bringing people back into the office

Mark Smith: Right, so getting people back into the office is a hot topic at the moment. There have been a lot of conversations between our consultants and clients. I thought I'd chat with Mihilea from the permanent accounting team in Sydney. Ironically, he's working from home today.

Mihilea: Yes, that's correct. Although we're discussing getting people back to the office, I'm currently working from home.

Mark Smith: Interesting! What have our clients been saying about this?

Mihilea: Many large companies are forcing their employees back into the office, facing media backlash and pushback. However, forcing people back might indicate a need to examine workplace experience.

Mark Smith: True. What else did you find in the People2People and Frog Recruitment report?

Mihilea: The report revealed that 73% of employees and 78% of business leaders feel there needs to be a better reason to go to the office than employee expectations. Additionally, 85% would prefer working from the office if it involves socializing and collaborative activities.

Mark Smith: Interesting insights. So, how can companies bring people back?

Mihilea: I suggest four points. Firstly, develop a clear vision of the work experience you want. Second, leaders must do the work required for the change, not just delegate to HR. Third, select the right support, like a cultural specialist. Fourth, ask your people what they need.

Mark Smith: Communication is key. What's your take on the current trend?

Mihilea: We're leaning towards a hybrid model. There's a challenge in managing both negative aspects and rewarding good performance in a remote setting.

Mark Smith: Definitely a hot topic. How can someone reach out to you?

Mihilea: They can contact me by phone at 02 8270 9711 or via email at mihilea@people2people.com. Thanks for having me on P2P Live!

Share our insights

Season Two

Join Group Managing Director Mark Smith for the latest insights into the employment and job seeker markets. Explore our hot jobs across Australia as well as some exciting opportunities abroad in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

This week we discuss how employers can help overcome the resistance that people have about returning to work in the office.

Mark, a qualified Accountant, began his career with Deloitte in the late 1980’s. In 1994, he decided to make a career change to the recruitment industry. During his early recruitment career with two listed recruitment entities, Mark recruited and managed teams in both temporary and permanent disciplines in the Sydney, Brisbane and London markets.

In February 2005, Mark established people2people with Manda Milling and Simon Gressier. Mark is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), a member of the Recruitment & Consulting Services Association (MRCSA) and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD).​