How Can You Measure the Success of Return-to-Work Policies?

October 5, 2024

By Ross Colomb
October 5, 2024

Businesses of all sizes have been through a lot over the past few years. Some companies returned to the office in early 2021, while others are maintaining hybrid work arrangements. Return-to-work policies have been a hot-button issue throughout this process, as some companies need help to measure the success of their programs, and 9 in 10 businesses are planning to be back in the office by 2024. Like many aspects of your business, data is critical to evaluate your policies properly. How can you accurately measure the success of your return-to-work policies?

Employee Engagement

Employee engagement is a valuable metric throughout the year, and it’s particularly valuable when considering the efficacy of your return-to-work policies. When your employees are happy and committed to your company, they will work hard and engage deeply with the work that they’re doing. When engagement drops, it’s a sign that performance and retention issues are on the horizon. Short, frequent surveys can help you keep an eye on your organization’s engagement, whether it’s looking at work-life balance or connections across departments.

Employee Performance

Tools for employee performance will vary depending on the mechanics of your business. Self-assessments, peer reviews, manager assessments, and raw data can all be used to evaluate the performance of those working in the office, at home, or in a hybrid arrangement. According to Gallup, 65% of employees feel less productive when working remotely. That self-reported data illuminates the importance of return-to-work policies; you will likely find it validated in your raw data.

Employee Retention and Turnover

Many business owners still feel anxious across industries after the ‘Great Resignation’ last year. Thankfully, much of the dust has settled. Return-to-work policies can impact your employee turnover and retention rates, so it’s essential to keep an eye on them and proactively reach out to those you’re asking to return to the office to see how to make the transition smoother. Track short-term and long-term trends in turnover data, exit interview data, and disparities in turnover between hybrid and in-person teams.

Recruitment

It might sound counterintuitive, as return-to-work policies directly impact your current employees, but you should also examine your recruitment and candidate quality when assessing your policies. Are high-quality candidates applying at the same rates as before? Are you meeting the expectations of the employees that you want to attract? If you are a larger organization whose return to the office was covered in the media, did that positively or negatively impact the perception of your brand to prospective employees? These factors can help you determine if it’s time to pivot your branding or messaging to show people that your office is a beautiful place to work.

Partner with Striden Today for Facilities Management Solutions

The world has changed, and many businesses have changed in response. As you implement your return-to-work policies, you need the right partners to ensure that your office is a welcoming space where employees are excited to get back to work. Let Striden help guide you through designing and maintaining workspaces that achieve your goals. Contact us today to discover how we can tailor a solution that fits your business and sets you on the path to success.

Ross Colomb

If Ross had been cast in the movie TopGun, he would be Iceman. Ross began his career in the US Army where he honed his leadership, organizational and motivational skills. He has two decades of experience working in the Facilities Management and the Office Services industry. Ross lives and breathes efficient execution of every project he undertakes. He doesn’t get stressed even when the problem seems unsurmountable. His southern charm combined with his depth of experience in logistics makes him every client’s favorite call each week.