“Coffee badging,” latest hybrid work trend, is the act of going into the office long enough to grab a coffee, visit with co-workers and/or comply with in-office work requirements. Once the coffee and the socializing dry up, employees leave to work from home for the rest of day.
Many leaders hoping to restore office culture are understandably concerned about the impacts on company culture. To manage this new trend, leaders need to address the factors limiting the appeal of the office for hybrid workers, like long commutes. For example, flex hours allow employees to set their own schedules, provided they work 40 hours a week, and dodge heavy traffic times. Employees also respond positively to employers who help reduce their transportations costs via paid parking, gas cards and other benefits.
Employers should show employees the value of the office by creating a collaborative and social office environment. Above all, employees must also feel their time in the office serves a purpose. Organizations can schedule meetings and brainstorms for in-office days, so employees feel their presence has meaning. Team bonding initiatives are equally as important as productivity. Managers can also promote after-work happy hours and encourage socializing in the break room.
Finally, leaders need to communicate hybrid work policy clearly and openly, encouraging feedback and emphasizing their commitment to making the office a meaningful space for their teams. Listening to employees is essential for organizations to develop a robust office culture.
Don Alix is district manager with Insperity, a leading provider of human resources offering the most comprehensive suite of scalable HR solutions available in the marketplace
