More and more companies have switched to a “blended” office model. This means that employees can work in the office or work from home. Global Workplace Analytics estimates that 56% of workers have jobs that can work remotely. Many of us are already familiar with video calls from our social-distancing days, so a blended office post-pandemic isn’t a drastic change for many workers.
A blended office environment may allow employees to work from home a couple of days of the week. After the pandemic, many employees have grown comfortable with remote work. Working from home can be more relaxing than coming into the office for many workers. It’s up to the company and office leaders to decide what works best for their office and to set an example.
Remote Concerns
Many companies are concerned about whether or not employees will be productive at home. It might help to change the focus from time spent in the office to how efficiently employees can accomplish their tasks. Home-life distractions may be a predicament for some employees, but they also don’t have to work from home, and they can also work flexible hours rather than the standard 9-5.
Some companies have been “hybrid” since long before the pandemic. A hybrid company has offices in different locations. Rather than traveling to and from offices, businesses can opt to use video conferencing tools to communicate. This holds the same for blended work environments. Communication doesn’t have to fall to the wayside because an employee isn’t in the office. Encourage workers to use the phone or video call benefits to collaborate on projects.
Mental Health of Employees
Blended working can help the mental health of your employees. It can keep them happier and healthier knowing they can work from home a few days of the week. It can reduce the stress of coming in to work—we all have those days when we don’t want to be around others. Work from home days can also be beneficial when employees have medical appointments. It can make scheduling easier for them, and they don’t have to worry about the time lost when they can make it up later.
Working from home a few days a week can save employees money on gas, which makes them feel more financially secure, and it can save the company money on water and electricity bills. The time they save on the commute can go towards bettering themselves via exercise or mediation. This will help improve their mental health, which can make them more productive at work.
Blended Work Balance
You may need to find your office’s perfect balance for blended working. Some companies allow employees to work from home two or more times per week. It might be a concern for employers that remote work will negatively impact their company’s culture. For new employees, you may want to consider establishing a baseline for days that they must be in the office. This way, new employees get to know their coworkers and acclimate to the company culture.
Your company may want to establish days that all staff should appear in the office for a team meeting to help with team-building. Consider having an office calendar where people write down the days of the week, they plan on working from home. You can also use the calendar to schedule team meetings or days when you’d prefer people to work in the office.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Many offices opt for laptops for employees to allow their staff more freedom where they work. Many offices have different workspaces or rooms for employees to work. Laptops let employees work from home more easily and allow more flexibility. Finding the right technology and programs for your team can help with communication and scheduling. Using a communication/messaging app or software can help with tasks and scheduling.
You may need to update your business insurance policy if your business changes to a blended work policy. If you have any questions, talk to a local insurance agent today and get a quote for a new business insurance policy!
Having a house maintenance checklist and keeping up with it can significantly improve the life of your home and can also save you money on repairs later on. Some home maintenance projects are better to do in the summer than in winter. If you plan on doing any work to the exterior of your home, it’s much easier to finish when no winter storms are getting in the way! Here’s a list of home projects you may want to complete this summer:
Outdoor Cleanup
There may be a few exterior projects you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t been able. Summer is the best time to landscape your yard or fix up the exterior of your home. Look at your local weather forecast before taking up some projects. If you’re planning on staining or painting your fence, deck, or house, you’ll want to make sure it’s not raining for a few days to ensure it properly dries.
New Siding
Is it time for new vinyl siding? Vinyl is a popular choice for home siding as it is highly durable. However, if any pieces of vinyl are not properly attached, your home will likely suffer from water damage. Make sure you have any loose vinyl siding replaced by a professional. Older homes may need all-new vinyl siding installed. Modern vinyl is durable and can last up to 100 years if it’s well-kept.
New Roof
Summer is also the ideal time of year for roof repairs! If your roof has a leak and needs repairs, now’s the time. Or, if you need a new roof, it’s best to do it when it’s not snowing. Roofs typically need replacing around every 20 years or less depending on the materials. Older, worn roofs are more susceptible to water damage. Water damage doesn’t go away on its own and will only get worse. If your roof leaks, it’s time for a new roof! If you’re replacing your roof, it may also be time to consider installing new gutters.
Replace Windows
Summer is an ideal time to have your windows replaced. It’s better to replace windows when it’s not freezing outside. However, you may want to have them replaced closer to autumn when it’s a tad cooler outdoors. You probably won’t want your air conditioning on when replacing windows because it wastes energy.
Old windows are often inefficient and drafty. New windows can boost your home’s curb appeal while lowering your heating and cooling bill. Installing new windows in your home can be costly, but you’ll save on your energy bills later on. If you plan on selling your house anytime soon you can expect a significant return on your investment.
Pest Control
When you’re working on the exterior of your home, keep an eye out for any pests that may be trying to take up residence! Look out for hornets or signs of termite infestation. Hornets and birds sometimes try to make a nest in your attic, so keep an eye out for any openings they may be able to get through and be sure to seal them up.
Rather than spending a hefty amount on pest control to come and eradicate pests, consider signing up for a plan where they visit your home regularly. You can save money in the long run with a monthly pest control visit that will deter pests from infesting your home.
Maintaining your home regularly will keep your home healthier longer. No one wants to live in a run-down house. Taking care of your home will make it worth it in the long run—especially when it comes time to sell. You may also want to make sure your home is properly insured with a good home insurance plan. Talk to one of your local insurance agents today to discuss your home insurance policy.