As the pandemic hit, a staggering number of employees have either been forced to work from home or are operating under a hybrid model of both in-office and at-home schedules. In turn, remote working has saved many companies and nonprofits from having to shut down and allowed employees to enjoy a different kind of work-life balance. 

However, now that the big return to the office is near, it is crucial to make office life worthwhile. And, how can managers of nonprofits encourage employees to come to the office?

There are many ways options on the table, but all strategies are based on creating a safe, healthy, energizing, and inspiring environment. Of course, each office space has unique needs, but you can start building your new office environment with some of the suggestions below. 

Leverage the Power of Nature

Natural light and airflow are vital aspects of a healthy environment. Without them, employees can feel more fatigued, tired, and unable to focus. Opening the windows and letting the sunshine and fresh air come through can help everyone regain energy, recharge, and feel more motivated. 

If your building has outdoor space, consider encouraging your employees to spend their lunch break outside or allowing them to work from dedicated benches for short periods of time.

Don’t forget the subtle changes you can make Indoors, too. Leverage the power of nature by using natural elements in your office design. Decorate with plants and take turns taking care of them. Encourage natural lighting and keep the blinds open to let the sunshine in. All of these little, subtle changes can make a big difference.

Create a Common Goal

The physical environment of the office plays a vital role, but it is also important to bring people together in other ways. For example, creating a common goal and engaging and dialoguing with your employees can help them feel understood and appreciated. It’s essential to remember what employees have been through this past 18 months and to remind them why their role in your nonprofit is significant.

While flexibility to work from home is great, when employees remember the value of working in a shared space and collaborating in real-time (without the screen), everyone wins.

Allow for Flexibility

For many, working from home has become the norm, and not everyone is ready or willing to come back to the office full-time. So, consider allowing your employees to choose how they prefer to work and when they would like to come to the office, within reason.

For team members with positions requiring little to no client interaction, working from home a few days a week is reasonable. For others who need to see clients face-to-face, supervise employees, or have other duties that require a physical presence, find other ways to offer flexibility like shifting hours on Fridays or offering an extended lunch break.

Another option here is to consider using a virtual assistant. While virtual assistants were once thought of as an option for just businesses, the rise of flexible work arrangements has opened up all-new possibilities for retired nonprofit directors and those with nonprofit experience to work remotely as virtual assistants.

Keep Up With Maintenance

Maintaining your office premises is essential to create a safe and healthy environment for all. If you are not able to look after the building by yourself, consider scheduling regular checks and services, which should include janitors, plumbers, electricians, a professional office exterminator, and other necessities.

Buildings that have not been fully occupied in the last 18 months may need a good dose of clearing out and refreshes — great jobs for volunteers!

There is no one model for how nonprofits can navigate today’s working environment. Be sure to consult with peers in the industry and trade best practices and above all, listen to your employees. Your end goal — to deliver a transformational experience to those you serve - depends on your team.

Until next time,

Andrea

Related Resources

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How to adapt your nonprofit board agenda and board report for virtual board meetings