Hybrid Working: What It Means for Facilities Management

Hybrid working. It’s a phrase that we didn’t hear very often before 2020. But as we now all start the return to the office, what does this mean for facilities management?

Our team share their thoughts –

Hybrid Working Means Office Occupancy is Increasing

The majority workers who have spent the last 2 years at home are keen to get back to the office. In a recent survey by a workplace platform, just 5% wanted to stay at home full time. With 57% preferring a mix of home and office-based working, hybrid working looks like it’s here to stay. We’ve also seen reports just this week of office occupancy steadily increasing again in London. The number of offices returning to work is currently around 61% and this is likely to increase as we see the final covid restrictions lifted.

However, hybrid working does make it slightly more challenge for facilities management. Rather than the predictable occupancy, hybrid working is creating peaks and troughs, and this will make it harder to measure FM needs from day-to-day. So what does this mean for facilities management and what does the future look like?

A Focus on Collaborative Working

The working environment has become more complex for facilities management teams. The purpose of the office has changed too. No longer a place where people simply go to work, it’s now become a place to meet up with colleagues. Therefore, lots of companies are asking their facilities management teams to prioritise relaxation spaces, social areas, collaboration spaces and even healthy food services. Additionally, with more than 60% of working professionals looking to change their job this year, it’s never been more important for companies to look after their employee wellbeing. Another area that facilities management will take great responsibility for. It’s natural that this change should see IT, HR and FM teams working more closely together too.

Managing Spaces with Hybrid Working

With less people in the office full time, companies may look to implement ‘hot desking’. This not only reduces the amount of office space needed, but it can also increase the availability of collaborative working spaces. However, the ‘dance of chairs’ needs to be careful managed, particularly when it comes to hygiene.

Whilst cleanliness and security is always top of the facilities management list, there will be a stronger focus on hygiene for employees and visitors again in 2022. However, with hybrid working, greater efficiencies can also be realised with some forward planning. Firstly, cleaning and maintenance can be scheduled in for quieter times – that’s an obvious one. Additionally, facilities management needs to be able to adjust the HVAC system, lighting and even the frequency of cleaning to fit in with these new flexible schedules.

Who are Catch 22?

We’re the UK’s No1 Facilities Management recruitment company. We’ve been investing in businesses to deliver real recruitment solutions for over 40 years. We have helped shaped the industry and have the knowledge and expertise you need from a recruitment partner. It’s why 25+ of the top 50 FM companies choose us to fulfil their recruitment needs. We’d love the opportunity to do the same for you. Why not get in touch today?