Part of our job is understanding how people are working and how businesses are adapting in the workplace.

One noticeable trend has been a move towards ‘week on, week off’ for staff in relation to attending the office. This seems to be an effort to encourage social distancing and provide flexibility as we navigate Alert Level One COVID-19 response in New Zealand. However, most people seem to be opting to go to the office – it seems New Zealanders are ready for a change of scene after lockdown.

Returning to the office is a good idea as strong social connections make people happier and physically healthier, which can translate into work performance.

“Social psychologists have been studying the human need of belonging for many years. It’s been found that feeling a sense of belonging is an important intrinsic motivator. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs includes a sense of belonging as a major need that motivates human behavior – just like food, shelter and safety.” suggests Forbes.com

Combine social connection with a well designed workplace, and it’s a match made in ‘engagement’ heaven (with COVID-19 safety protocols in place of course).

In recent years, there has been a shift towards dynamic workplaces, shared collaborative zones, and the need to encourage connectivity and movement away from workstations.

Creating an environment that employees want to be in is key. After all, we spend the majority of our time at work.

Working with facilities managers and furniture manufacturers, Interstall make these workspaces a reality by providing specialised installation services. If Interstall can assist with your project by connecting you with furniture companies we work with, please contact us.

In the meantime, register here for more from Interstall.

Photo: Autex