How to Motivate Employees to Return to the Office: The Salesforce Approach

A New Strategy to Re-Enchant the Workplace

With some major companies pulling back on remote work, a pressing question arises: how can employees be encouraged to enthusiastically return to the office? Forcing employees back into full-time office work without flexibility is proving counterproductive. According to Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, approximately 64% of Gen Zs and 66% of millennials say that return-to-office policies have been implemented in their organizations. However, resistance is high—many of these employees would consider leaving their jobs if required to work fully on-site without remote options.

This trend highlights a crucial challenge: rigid return-to-office mandates risk alienating top talent. Companies like Amazon and Disney, which have implemented stricter in-office policies, have faced criticism and friction with employees. In this context, the focus shifts to finding innovative solutions that make the office an attractive and engaging place to work. One such approach is the introduction of Hospitality Officers, who transform office environments into welcoming and stimulating spaces that employees genuinely want to return to.

The Context: Why Are Companies Insisting on a Return to the Office?

Since the pandemic, remote work has become the new normal, but some organizations are rethinking their approach. Here’s why:

• Strengthening Team Cohesion: Remote work has sometimes weakened social interactions and corporate culture. Physical proximity fosters a stronger sense of belonging and collaboration.
• Boosting Creativity: Informal discussions, often the source of innovation, are missing in fully remote setups. In-person work encourages spontaneous exchanges crucial for new ideas.
• Addressing Strategic Needs: Companies like Amazon argue that in-office work promotes better cultural and organizational alignment. Andy Jassy, Amazon’s CEO, notably stated that office presence reinforces company culture.

However, these enforced returns to the office have received mixed reactions. According to a study by Atlassian and PaperGiant, 62% of European employees prefer a hybrid model combining remote and in-office work. In France, this number rises to 66%, underscoring the demand for flexibility.

These findings highlight the need for companies to balance strategic goals with employee expectations to create a sustainable work model.

Salesforce: An Inspiring Example of Reimagined Workspaces

As a global CRM leader, Salesforce has set a new benchmark by redesigning its workspaces to promote employee well-being and engagement. Its iconic Sydney tower exemplifies this approach.

1. Immersive and Flexible Spaces

At its Sydney tower, Salesforce has taken significant steps to create an office environment that caters to the diverse needs of its employees. The workspace has been designed with a focus on promoting collaboration, concentration, and well-being. Collaborative zones have been strategically incorporated to encourage informal interactions and spontaneous meetings, which often spark innovative ideas. These spaces provide a dynamic setting where teams can come together, brainstorm, and problem-solve in a more engaging atmosphere.

For those requiring quieter settings to focus on individual tasks, Salesforce offers dedicated workstations. These areas are tailored to enhance productivity by minimizing distractions, ensuring employees have a space conducive to deep work and uninterrupted focus. Complementing these functional areas, relaxation zones inspired by hospitality services have been introduced. These spaces allow employees to unwind and recharge, fostering mental and physical well-being during the workday.

By combining these elements, Salesforce demonstrates a commitment to crafting an office environment that balances productivity with comfort and innovation, setting a standard for reimagined workspaces.

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2. Personalized Services Through Hospitality Officers

Salesforce has made a strategic investment in Hospitality Officers to create a tailored and memorable employee experience. These professionals, inspired by practices from the hospitality industry, ensure that every touchpoint within the office is thoughtfully curated. Their responsibilities go beyond logistical support to actively enhance the quality of day-to-day interactions.

Expanded Roles and Examples

1. Event Organization and Team Engagement
   Hospitality Officers take charge of planning and executing events that boost morale and collaboration:
   • Wellness Initiatives: Hosting yoga or mindfulness sessions to promote mental and physical well-being among employees.
   • Team Bonding Activities: Organizing casual breakfasts or themed lunches to foster informal networking and camaraderie.
   • Seasonal Celebrations: Bringing the office to life with holiday-themed decorations and events that create a sense of community.
2. Customizing Workspaces to Meet Departmental Needs
   By collaborating with department leaders, Hospitality Officers adapt office spaces to maximize comfort and productivity:
   • Flexible Layouts: Rearranging furniture for brainstorming sessions, client meetings, or department-specific projects.
   • Personalized Desk Setups: Ensuring that each employee has access to tools and ergonomic solutions tailored to their roles.
   • Creative Touches: Adding plants, ambient lighting, or art installations to make spaces more welcoming.
3. Providing Concierge and Onboarding Support
   Hospitality Officers streamline daily processes and create a smooth transition for new hires:
   • Concierge Services: Assisting with everything from booking meeting rooms to handling travel arrangements for visiting teams.
   • Onboarding Coordination: Guiding new employees through their first days by managing office tours, setting up workstations, and answering practical questions about office amenities.
   • Recognition Programs: Supporting HR by coordinating rewards for milestone achievements or employee appreciation initiatives.

Impact Beyond Daily Operations

The efforts of Hospitality Officers have far-reaching effects that significantly enhance the overall employee experience. By addressing individual needs and preferences, these professionals create a sense of belonging among employees, making them feel valued and recognized. Through streamlined services and proactive problem-solving, they reduce stress, allowing employees to focus on their tasks rather than dealing with logistical hurdles. Additionally, Hospitality Officers serve as cultural ambassadors, bridging the gap between company values and everyday operations. Their influence helps to strengthen workplace culture, ensuring that organizational goals align with employee experiences in a meaningful way.

3. Measurable Impact

These initiatives have delivered significant results:

• Enhanced Attractiveness: Salesforce is consistently ranked among the best employers, thanks to its efforts to create an exceptional work environment.
• Increased Engagement: Employees feel valued and motivated, leading to reduced turnover and improved overall productivity.

Why This Example Inspires Other Companies

Salesforce’s approach demonstrates that rethinking workspaces and investing in personalized services can transform the employee experience. As many companies struggle to bring teams back to the office, Salesforce’s innovative strategies provide a clear roadmap.

Conclusion

Salesforce’s example highlights how Hospitality Officers and thoughtfully designed workspaces can re-enchant employees’ daily lives while supporting strategic business goals. In a world where employee experience is a key factor in talent retention, adopting such initiatives could be the key to shaping the future of work.

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