Right now the world and economy has been upended by COVID-19. As we look towards to 2021 here’s our predictions for the future of flexible working.
1. The death of the office is exaggerated.
Right now things are bleak for office space providers and the local businesses that rely on office workers.
However businesses still understand the importance of having an presence in cities and major towns. Offices are a base for the senior leaders in the business and a hub for employees.
Big long term leased office blocks are a risk right now and as a result we may see firms downsizing smaller flexible Serviced Offices.
2. Working from home, doesn’t necessarily mean working from home.
COVID has accelerated the move to working from home in a major way. Our homes are still our sanctuary and the line between work and life is becoming blurred. Mental health can be impaired by isolation.
Employers need to be led by employees on this – working near home may be the answer. Coworking spaces or small satellite offices are a solution.
3. The rise in on-demand workspace
Video calls are convenient , but who can honestly say they enjoy frequent conferences calls? The biggest drawback with a home based workforce is Collaboration and innovation is keen.
Businesses may look to the flexible workspace sector again and many Serviced Office providers may tweak their offering to allow customers to book on demand team space by the day , week or month, for instance.
4. Boutique local workspaces will flourish
Many people enjoy a hybrid of working from home and in an office, but not many enjoy the 2 or 3 hours commute. As a result, we will see a growth in flexible workspaces in towns and small regional cities.
5. Flexible workspaces can be a force for good.
All this can lead to some good being done, including reducing emissions by reducing commutes , revitalising local economies and allowing employees more life balance.
Another major benefit is employers can widen the net when recruiting, to areas outside major cities and their sky-high rents, resulting in a reduction income equality.
What do you think? Comment below.
About the author: Steven Carr is Commercial Manager at the Kingsford Group, a provider of boutique Serviced and Coworking space in the heart of Edinburgh.