The demand for on-site work is rising, according to a recent report by the British Chambers of Commerce, with four out of ten businesses increasing their expectations for employees to return to the office. However, the East Midlands Chamber has highlighted that the future of hybrid working is not a one-size-fits-all solution, as it largely depends on the unique needs of each business.
The report reveals that 40% of businesses have increased their requirements for employees to work on-site over the past year. Additionally, 10% of businesses have seen staff resign due to the push for employees to return to the office. Meanwhile, 60% of manufacturers expect all work to be in-person within the next 12 months, while almost half of businesses anticipate a fully on-site model in the coming months.
The East Midlands Chamber emphasises that flexibility in working arrangements is crucial. Some businesses, particularly those in frontline or customer-facing roles, require employees to be on-site, while others benefit from a hybrid model that accommodates diverse working styles. Technological advancements have made it easier for businesses to manage remote tasks efficiently, offering more flexibility in structuring work.
For employers, the key challenge is balancing the need for remote and in-office work to attract and retain talent. Employees with family commitments or those who need a quieter environment for focus have found remote work appealing, while others thrive in the office, where collaboration and networking are more prevalent. As recruitment remains a challenge in the East Midlands, businesses will need to continue evaluating their hybrid work policies to ensure they meet both employee needs and business goals.
