After the massive rush to hybrid systems during the pandemic, companies are going through a new phase of readjusting work formats. According to the global survey "Future of Work 2024" conducted by consulting firm JLL, 44% of the companies interviewed already adopt a 100% in-person model, requiring employees to be in the office five days a week. Two years ago, this rate was 34%. The survey interviewed over 2,300 people, representatives of institutions from various economic sectors, in 25 countries where JLL is present.
The expectation is that by 2030, more organizations will choose the in-person model: only 40% of companies declare that they intend to keep their teams in hybrid models. On this path, 43% believe that office space should increase to accommodate the entire workforce.
Fátima Bottameli, Director of New Business in the Work Dynamics division at JLL, points out that this movement should lead to a redesign of the spaces. At the peak of hybrid work, companies invested in areas for socializing and relaxation; now we will see an adjustment to accommodate the volume of employees that was inhome office. Rest rooms and even meeting rooms are out, and shared work tables are in,” he reveals.
The study also indicates that, in order to make going to the offices more attractive, 39% of leaders are considering salaries and benefits for those who regularly attend the space. "It will still be necessary to assess how people will adapt to the new rules or if there will be a 'brain drain.' It is worth noting that some employees, many from Generation Z, have not experienced inflexible models. There are also those who have moved to a different city and work entirely remotely," analyzes the executive.
“On the other hand, other sectors of the economy should benefit from the return of in-person work. For example: stores, restaurants and services that are located around corporate areas,” he recalls.
The future is green
By 2030, companies face the challenge of becoming more efficient, intelligent, and responsible, according to the research. Among business leaders, 44% say they want to reduce environmental impact and 43% intend to expand their impact on the communities they are part of.
In this scenario, green buildings and sustainable product suppliers should stand out. Among the respondents: 43% stated they will only select recyclable furniture and equipment using circular economy materials; 45% will choose only buildings that are resilient to climate events (e.g., droughts, floods, and hurricanes); 45% will accept paying an extra rent fee to occupy only spaces with sustainable credentials and green seals.
“This shows that companies are increasingly aware of their impacts and more attentive to their sustainability commitments, increasing the clarity that green goals need to consider the company's occupation plans”, points out Bottameli.
The portfolio of certified buildings is mostly located in the most prestigious areas of the cities. "This should reaffirm the main corporate axes as areas of interest for companies and, at the same time, encourage older buildings to invest in retrofits," he concludes.
