Insider News: Post-COVID workplace changes

What will the workplace look like after COVID-19? Many people are wondering how the pandemic will change the way we work, even after we return to the office. Here's a look at some possible changes to benefits, office layouts, and employee habits that might be in store.

How coronavirus might impact the future of employee benefits

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted some of the areas where  employees may be looking for better benefits in a post-coronavirus world. Examples of these benefit considerations include an increased need for mental health care services, like Starbucks' 20 free therapy sessions per year, and childcare accommodations that make it easier for parents to balance work and personal responsibilities. More flexibility around remote work and access to telemedicine services are also poised to become more widespread. 

Are open-floor office layouts a thing of the past?

While experts say that a virus-free office isn't possible, many companies are looking to find ways to make their current workplace safer to return to after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. The New York Times discusses various possibilities for lowering risk in the workplace, including a shift away from open office floor plans and the implementation of 'sneeze protection screens.'

Ultimately, however, the most effective solution may be to keep people home, especially when they are sick. Rather than wearing masks in the office or installing new ventilation systems that push air down instead of up, the real solutions may involve improved sick leave policies and flexible remote work policies. 

Telework survey offers hints at employee favorability toward remote work 

SHRM conducted a survey of over 700 members to understand their telework habits and the challenges they are facing while working at home. The survey offers insights into how well some workers are taking to this change in routine, and how equipped they are to continue.

Findings include:

• 52% have a home office where they work, while 34% are working at their dining table.
• 66% say they are interrupted by others in their household only 0-5 times a day.
• The top two challenges of working from home were the lack of face-to-face collaboration with colleagues (21%) and difficulties unplugging at the end of the workday (17%).
• The biggest benefits to working from home are: reduced commute times (44%), better balance between work/home responsibilities (14%), and getting to spend time with other members of the household (14%).