MANISH SINGH - THE PATHFINDERS

Head of Property, India & South Asia, Standard Chartered

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented new and incredible challenges for millions of workers around the globe. In just a matter of weeks, the workforce at large has quickly and strategically navigated the sudden shift to remote working, while maintaining the symbiotic relationship between business continuity and employee well-being.

We have to start with why we are coming to the office. Working from home and virtual meetings have limitations. Given we are creative and social people and the workplace helps us connect, collaborate and be creative.

At the same time, companies need people to come together to shape culture. Without that, organisations will lose their competitive advantage over time.

Of course, the most important factor is the health and safety of the people. But there’s a rising need to think beyond the now and the near, and to move past virus-centric solutions and to adapt human-centric solutions. The industry needs to look at designing spaces that address people’s cognitive, physical and emotional wellbeing.

Managing and leading that concept will become a key differentiator between a workplace that is centred on wellbeing and one that’s simply centred on productivity.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, organisations are outlining some considerations, tools, and methodologies for a smooth transition of employees back to the office.

Phased return to work: With limited seating available, organisation need to identify essential workers for a phased re-entry to the office. While many office workers have transitioned to working from home, some individuals cannot work remotely due to the nature of their role or for security reasons.